How I Met My EDO

I'm moving...

2011-08-04T20:15:00.000-04:00

I'm moving...Follow me "Way Down South". So much has happened in the last few weeks and months, "How I met my EDO" didn't seem to capture our life anymore...so I'm starting fresh.

What's New:

Hubs is leaving the life he's know since he received his buzz cut at the Naval Academy Prep School in 1996. Becoming a civilian will certainly be an adjustment for him, but we both agree it will be best for our family in the long run to live the "normal" life. The Navy has treated him well and given him so many experiences that couldn't be replicated in any other line of work. We are truly grateful for everything the Navy has afforded us, but we are so excited to start the next chapter in our lives.

We're moving...again! Of course due to the above announcement, we'll be leaving Virginia Beach (to some unknown destination). I'm truly sad to leave some of the friends I've met here like Beach Bum & Baby, Preppy Poppy, Stuttering Shell, A Trucker Wife and others who don't blog/tweet, but I'm so excited to think about actually putting down some long term roots. I have been craving some sort permanence.

Once we make the move, I've been going through a personal struggle of deciding whether or not to return to work. I treasure being able to be home with C, but I also miss being challenged professionally and interacting with more adults on a day to day basis. Perhaps once we move and I'm able to survey the job market and the daycare scene, this decision will be easier to make.

With all the changes we're undertaking I should have no problem coming up with some good blog material!

www.FollowMeWayDownSouth.com

{Almost} Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T14:45:00.000-04:00

Someone has learned roll from back to front...Watch out world!

(Is this what having your 16 year old get his driver's license is like? Ha!)

Baths & Pics

2011-06-18T09:11:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to jump back into blogging, and I'm starting by linking up w/ Katie at Loves of Life.

We started the morning off with a bath...I love cuddly, sweet-smelling babies! Then, I decided it was time to stop procrastinating and actually take Baby EDO's 4 months pictures (only 2 weeks late...oops!). Here are a few outtakes!

Mom, seriously...

It's a bird, it's a plane...

I'm blowing this popsicle stand...

...If I could just figure out how to crawl...

...I'm over it!

After someone's morning nap, we have an exciting day filled with stops at Sam's, Costco, a Tailor and who knows what else! Happy Saturday!

Memorial Day 2011

2011-05-30T08:49:00.000-04:00

...The solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.

- A Lincoln

Happy Easter from Baby EDO

2011-04-24T21:43:00.000-04:00

I'm thinking that these will be pictures that he will hate me for one day, but I can hardly stand the cuteness and had to share!

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16

Tuesday's Tidbits

2011-04-12T16:12:00.000-04:00

I have so much I could blog about, but I truly don't know where to start so I thought I'd just sit down and type a few things that have been going on, things I've been liking lately or things that are going to happen in the future with a few cute pics in between...

Little Man and I have been in Atlanta for almost a month now visiting my parents while Hubs is temporarily overseas. I've enjoyed having a few extra hands available with the baby, Baby EDO has enjoyed all the extra spoiling and my parents have enjoyed doing the extra spoiling. It's going to be tough on all of us when we go back to Virginia Beach next Monday.

Baby EDO has his 2 month (or 2 1/2 month in our case) well check next Tuesday when we get back home. He'll be getting his first round of shots. Any advice on how to handle a cranky baby after shots? Well, here's hoping that he won't be cranky afterwards but never helps to be prepared!

Hubs comes home in approximately 22 days depending on his flight schedule. I can't wait. This should be our last separation for a while. He and little man will be doing lots of manly bonding upon his return. And Mommy will be doing lots of sleeping.

Hubs will be taking the week after Memorial Day off while his parents are visiting, and they'll be meeting Baby EDO for the first time. Since we'll have so many extra hands, I've scheduled my annual exam (not fun), dental cleaning (not fun) and a massage (FUN!) for that week...Wondering if I can fit anything else into my schedule...pedicure, hair cut, etc...

When I hit the 6 week postpartum mark, I joined Weight Watchers. I had actually (LUCKILY) lost almost all of my baby weight before joining. Now, I'm trying to lose my post-engagement, post-wedding, and post-honeymoon weight AND my post-baby shape. Will this belly pooch ever go away? I'm really enjoying their new program now...especially, since I'm still breastfeeding and you get 14 extra points per day. Hmm...the extra points might be enough motivation to keep breastfeeding!

Baby EDO and I have a cold - his first. Boo! It's so hard to watch your little man cough and sneeze and not be able to do much to help him. I've had the saline drops and the humidifier flowing. Anyone have any advice on how to get rid of a baby's cold faster?

I don't think I would have survived nursing and breastfeeding this long without this wonderful app call "Baby ESP". You can track everything baby related - bottle feedings, breastfeedings, diaper changes, medicine, baths and more. There is a trial version available that you can use for 14 days for free. But don't repeat my mistake of downloading it in the middle of the night, waiting for the trial to run out and frantically searching for your credit card at 3am. Not good for the sanity!

When Hubs gets back, we really need to start looking for a church. I really want Baby EDO to grow up in a church environment so that he will know and love Jesus. It scares me a bit because I'd have to leave my baby with strangers in the church nursery, and the fact that I'm a pretty private person when it comes to my faith, and I'm not sure churches these days let you observe on the DL.

We're driving up to DC for a few days the week before Memorial Day. I want to see the Blue Angels in Annapolis on Wednesday, and Hubs has a conference on Thursday and Friday. I'm a little nervous about it. This will be our first trip out of town and in public since the baby arrived. I'm an extremely private person and super self-conscience about my breasts and breastfeeding that I'm not sure how long we're going to be able to sightsee without heading back to the hotel to breastfeed and/or pump. Anyone have any advice on traveling while exclusively breastfeeding?

WOW! I have so much more I could have talked about, but I'll save that for another post.

{wordless} Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T20:02:00.000-04:00

Hormones, Hormones, those CRAZY Hormones

2011-03-04T17:21:00.000-05:00

Okay, so seriously no one warned me about the CRAZY after birth hormones. In general, I'm not that emotional of a person unless it's road rage related...I kid, I kid. I was calm through birth and the first 48 hours of Baby EDO's life then the CRAZY hormones hit.

It started around midnight the night before we were suppose to check out of the hospital when the night nurse informs me that Baby EDO has long 10% of his body weight and hints that we might not be able to take him home and/or they might have to supplement with formula. Is this something to tell a new nursing mom with no sleep at MIDNIGHT!!?? I think not! The tears started flowing and have been pretty much flowing on and off since then.

My parents leaving, Mr. leaving for the Middle East, Baby EDO not latching on, Baby EDO not sleeping, Baby EDO crying non-stop, my mom coming to visit and then leaving again, being left completely alone with Baby EDO, Mr. being able to sleep 8 hours a night half way across the world - basically, you name it, I've cried about it. AND in front of everyone - including Baby EDO's pediatrician, the lactation consultant that called to check on me, the nurse from the OB's office who called with an answer to my question - embarrassing, but thankfully they are all people who have probably seen it before.

It led to feelings of being a horrible mother, wondering if having a baby was the right thing to do, etc. Thankfully, some wonderful mothers (including my own) have shared their experiences and thankfully mine aren't too different. So...for all you future mothers out there - Beware of the CRAZY hormones, they are completely normal, but they will make you feel completely not normal. The good news is once the CRAZY hormones settle down you are left with a beautiful baby like mine.

Wordless Wednesday - Bath Time

2011-03-02T12:07:00.000-05:00

Things I love #1 - Skype

2011-02-27T14:18:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in the last post, Mr. was sent to a country in the Middle East at the beginning of November for 65 days on about 7 days notice. Unfortunately, I was 7 1/2 months pregnant and I was not looking forward to surviving the end of my pregnancy without my husband - especially when it was sprung on us out of the blue.

Before he left we bought Mr. a new computer with a webcam that was able to run Skype. We were able to Skype at least once a day (sometimes more often for a quick "hi" and "I love you" depending on the time difference). It definitely made our separation past more quickly. Now, that he's gone again (almost 2 weeks down...about 6 more to go!) and we have Baby EDO in the mix it's incredibly nice for Mr. to be able to see the baby in these early weeks when he is growing like a weed!

I know that not everyone in the military is able to use Skype as often as Mr. and I were but what a great tool to keep families connected and make deployments past a little bit faster.

Skype - I love you!

Announcing the Arrival of Baby EDO

2011-02-25T14:44:00.000-05:00

Hi there! How are you doing??

Okay, Okay, I admit it...It's been WAY too long. I'll try not to give you excuses other than I've been a very lazy blogger...Please forgive me!

But anyways...I'd like to announce that (1 week late) on February 1st at 10:07pm, Mr. EDO and I welcomed Baby EDO into the world. He arrived at 7lbs. 1oz. and 19 3/4".

The Navy sent Mr. about 2 weeks after the baby's birth to the Middle East for 2 months (barring any changes to that schedule). And had I been a good blogger, you'd know that Mr. was also gone to the same locale for 65 days in November & December. Thankfully, he was able to be here for the birth.

Therefore, Granny (my mom) came to visit us for 2 weeks and leaves next Wednesday morning (boo!), and the baby and I will be on our own for about 2 weeks. Hopefully, we'll survive. I'm breastfeeding so it's pretty hard for anyone to help out with the feeding and such...But it's so nice to have another adult to talk to throughout the day - and some help with cooking, cleaning and diaper changes...And does this kid have diaper changes! Whoa!

In mid-March after his 2 month well check and my 6 week postpartum check, Baby EDO and I are headed to Atlanta to stay with my parents for 2-3 weeks before Mr. gets home. I'm excited that I'll be able to introduce the baby to friends and family.

I've read baby books and all sorts of articles on the internet but still feel completely lost when it comes to taking care of my beautiful baby. So, I guessing this blog will become my whole-hearted attempt to navigate parenthood without too much damage. I hope you'll continue to join me in the EDO's parenthood journey!

where I've been

2010-07-16T13:21:00.000-04:00

Is anyone out there?? Hello...Hello??

I know, I know. I've been a very bad blogger. 2 months is a LONG time...so I guess I'll fess up to where I've been and what I've been doing.

Around the time I last blogged, Mr. and I found out that we are expecting a baby! I know! Crazy! That's our big, crazy news. I am 12+ weeks pregnant - week 13 starts on Monday. We went to our first trimester screening and what I call our first "real" prenatal appointment. It was exciting for us to see the baby and to hear the heartbeat for the first time. He (or she) was looking at us and waving. :) Hehe! So, sometime around January 25, 2011, Mr. EDO and I will be welcoming a new member of our family.

Truthfully, I've wanted to blog over the past 2 months, but I couldn't come up with anything that didn't involve the baby - or somehow without mentioning the baby I felt that I was not being honest. I'm so glad that it's out in the open! :)

Other things that have been going on the past 2 months:

We put our house on the market.
We were gone for 3 weeks on a work/house hunting/fun trip to Virginia, Maryland, Virginia again, and Georgia.
Sold our house.
Visited Annapolis and had McGarvey's Crab Dip. YUMMMY!!!
Found a place to live in Virginia Beach/Norfolk.
Celebrated the 4th of July in Peachtree City with my family.
Took tons on pictures of the cutest niece ever.
Fixed issues from the inspection.
We are now waiting for closing on August 9th. (Crossing fingers it goes through smoothly!)
Trying to find a new recommended OBGYN in Virginia Beach/Norfolk that takes Tricare - apparently, not as easy as it sounds. Any recommendations??
Waiting for the movers to contact us. This will be my first military move - YIKES! Praying it goes smoothly!

That's all the exciting (or not so exciting) events in the past 2 months in the lives of EDO's. I promise to be a better blogger and not disappear for 2 months again!

eavesdropping on the edo's

2010-05-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

As I mentioned in the previous post, Mr. and I went to the Players Championship last weekend. It was one of the hottest days we've had so far in Jacksonville this year. Needless to say I coated myself down in 70 SPF sunscreen, and I assigned Mr. to put some on my upper back (I was wearing a sleeveless shirt with a scoop in the back).

Later that night, I realize that I'm pretty much burnt around the outline of my shirt but white as can be in the middle (where I assume he globbed on all the sunscreen). Did I mention that we are going to a wedding Memorial Day weekend and I might look slightly freaking due to Mr. inability to apply sunscreen correctly??

Our conversation goes like this:

Me: Babe, you have to be the worst sunscreen put-er-on-er. (Yes, this is a work in my dictionary.) My back is fried.

Mr.: What are you talking about? I put it all over your back.

Me: (Turning around to show him the freakiness) See. Burnt around the edges.

Mr.: Well (in defensive tone), I don't have much experience putting sunscreen on women.

Me: Silence...

Me: (Thinking) Well, I guess that's a good thing, right?? How can I be irritated at that?? :)

I guess sunscreen application lessons are in order.

tpc sawgrass {the players championship}

2010-05-10T20:34:00.000-04:00

Mr. and I went to The Players Championship on Saturday in Ponte Vedra, FL at TPC Sawgrass. Although I had seen the course countless times on TV, it was a beautiful sight to see in person. (Note: Unfortunately, PGA events don't allow phones or cameras into the tournament so I don't have any personal pictures.)

The famous 17th Hole

A Big Thanks

TPC Sawgrass and the Players Championship went out of their way to welcome and thank all military active duty personnel and veterans for their service. They supplied free tickets for the tournament, and they also set up a swanky hospitality tent called the "Patriots' Outpost"in a supreme location between the 16th and 18th fairways. Sponsored by Lockheed Martin, it was a HUGE air-conditioned tent (which game in handy with the 92+ degree weather). Inside was a great set up with Whole Foods donating breakfast pastries, fruit and two-bite brownies (YUM!), and Chick-Fil-A provided lunch (Double YUM!). And, finally, they were taking donations for a wonderful military charity, the Wounded Warrior Project. I would like to thank the course, the tournament, and the volunteers for their hospitality.

A Big Tournament

After we arrived and checked in at the Patriots' Outpost, Mr. and I walked around a bit and saw the practice range, the clubhouse, and some of the holes. We decided to find a spot where we could watch all the golfers come by instead of following around one grouping and only seeing those two. Camped out at the 18th tee, we were able to see Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Justin Leonard, Zach Johnson, and more. It's was interesting seeing them all in person AND seeing the crowds and media following Phil and Tiger - what a circus! :)

We had a great time and I came home with a cute pink t-shirt and a sunburn to match!

happy mother's day

2010-05-09T08:19:00.001-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mothers out there.

I would like to say a BIG Happy Mother's Day to my mom.

She was the best mom I could have asked for a complete lady and a wonderful example. I hope that one day I'm half the mom she is!

Happy Mother's Day, Mom! I love you!

wants vs. needs

2010-05-07T14:39:00.000-04:00

Since I went from having a relatively good-paying, full-time job to having no job and living on one income, I've become more aware of wants versus needs. Not to say that when I did have a job I was able to purchase anything I wanted - far from it in fact with my mortgage, bills, etc. - but I no longer purchase that book I have been wanting to read or that pair of shoes that I've been stalking.

I thought I'd share some of the things I've been wanting, but not needing lately...

Books (I love reading) - here the ones I want right now (and are sitting in my shopping cart on Amazon as we speak. Or is it read??):

I've heard many people rave about this one.

She's such a classy lady. I can't wait to read about her life before and after the White House.

Because I need a little ChickLit every now and then.

An American History Lesson.

A bike, specifically this AWESOME beach cruiser. I LOVE it and think I would look good on it.

Bike Found Here

A t-shirt quilt. I have a TON of high school and college t-shirts that I can't bring my self to get rid of so I want to make them into a quilt like this one.

Quilts Found Here

A dSLR camera. Mr. has promised me to buy me one once we have a baby...Is it wrong to consider having a baby just for the camera?? Just kidding...I think! :)

Camera found here.

Set of Pretty Prints to make my house pretty.

Prints Found Here.

Sewing Machine. Yes, I realize I don't know how to sew, but I want to learn. Pillow, curtains, and clothes, oh my... Once we move to Norfolk, I'm hoping I can find some sewing lessons somewhere!

Sewing Machine Found Here.

Photoshop book. I want to become a Photoshop guru.

Book found here.

Those are my most pressing wants right now, but they are certainly not needs so I guess I'll be stalking these items for a while longer! Anything out there that you want, but not need?

milspouse blog hop

2010-05-06T00:47:00.000-04:00

Hi all! I'm really late "hopping" on the Milspouse Blog Hop at Riding the Roller Coaster, but here goes.

I'm currently stay at home wife in Jacksonville, FL. After dating long distance for 2 years, Hubs and I got married exactly 8 months ago on September 5, 2009. We are headed to Norfolk in a few months, and I'm currently obsessing over the move (decluttering & selling our current house, finding a new abode and an wonderful new job)!

About me...I grew up in a small town on Lake Okeechobee, graduated from Florida State University, moved to Raleigh/Chapel Hill, NC for 2 years, and relocated to Atlanta, GA for 7 years before landing in Jax with Mr. EDO, who is currently stationed at Mayport.

My professional background is in marketing and advertising project management - mostly some sort of shelter industry - first new home construction and then multi-family housing for college students. The latter took me to interesting places around the country such as Pembroke, NC, Russellville, AR, and Normal, IL. I'm looking forward to move the to Norfolk/VA Beach and hoping that an exciting new career will in my future.

I'm a passionate, intelligent, hard-working, sarcastic, loving christian, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, employee, American. I'm learning more and more everyday how to be the best wife I can.

I love college football, wine, and chocolate.

I'm learning to love cooking, cleaning, and chinese food. (Okay, that might be a lie - I still hate Chinese food).

I look forward to meeting y'all!

wedding wednesday {paper}

2010-05-05T20:14:00.001-04:00

Today is all about paper! My professional background is in marketing so the paper aspects surrounding the wedding were some of my favorite projects. I personally designed everything with the exception of our wedding invitation. (Note: Some of the pictures are my really bad attempts at photography & I've blurred out our names and other info to protect the innocent!) :)

Our Save the Date (Left) & Rehearsal Dinner Invitation (Right)

Save the Date Back

Our Pocket Fold Invitation

Invitation Inside with four inserts (Ceremony & Transportation, Accommodations, Reception & RSVP)

Our Welcome to Annapolis Bags

Our Welcome Letter

Wedding Ceremony Programs

Wedding Program Cover

Wedding Ceremony Program (Ceremony Info)

Wedding Ceremony Program (Wedding Party Info)

Wedding Ceremony Program (With all our Love - In Loving Memory, Thanks, Our Address)

Wedding Ceremony Program (History of the USNA Chapel)

Cocktail Napkin

Reception Place Cards

Reception Table & Table Numbers

I used Mr.'s & his friends' football jersey numbers with their names. They were at hit!

Menu Cards and Favors

You can't tell in this photo, but the favor tag has our picture inside the stadium. I had it photoshopped to say "Thanks!" instead of "Go Navy". The favor was a chocolate in the shape of the Chapel.

Our Farewell Sparklers

wedding wednesday {military details}

2010-04-28T16:12:00.008-04:00

After long deliberations about where to have our wedding (inside meaning: I researched/planned about 4 weddings in 4 different locations) with the contenders being Peachtree City, GA, Callaway Gardens, GA, Annapolis, MD, or Hawaii. We finally decided on the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. It was such a unique opportunity that we just couldn't pass up.

Downtown Annapolis

The Naval Academy Chapel holds wedding ceremonies on Saturdays on the hour every hour typically starting at noon until 5pm. After graduation, they can hold up to 8 ceremonies in one day. While we were planning my only criteria was that we get the 5 o'clock time slot. The only dates that the 5pm time slot was available was September 5th and a date in November and Mr. said no to the November date because (a.) it was so far away and (b.) I wanted him to wear the choker whites - not the winter blues.

Chapel Dome

Chapel Steps

Inside the Chapel - This is what it looked like on my wedding day. It was in the middle of renovation and the wall you see was actually a temporary wall they put up while they were renovating the front/dome part of the chapel. It was disappointing that we were unable to be married in the most beautiful part of chapel, but thankfully, the beautiful chapel was getting a long overdue facelift.

This is the chapel before the renovations began without the above wall.

Our ceremony was absolutely beautiful and our chaplain did and amazing job. We chose our reading from the book of Ruth, and he structured the entire ceremony around the scripture (see below). We were able to meet with him several times and share much about ourselves, our relationship with each other and God. He put such a personal touch in our ceremony - it will definitely be something that I will cherish forever.
Ruth 1:16-17 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.

All but one of Mr.'s groomsmen graduated with him from the Naval Academy. Don't they look sharp in their uniforms!

This is one of my favorite pictures from our wedding. You are able to see the beauty of the ceiling, pews and windows of the chapel.

The price of passage is a kiss!

A REAL kiss!

Welcome to the Navy (whack on the butt with the sword)! The sword arch is one of my favorite military traditions.

Our reception was held at the N* (N Star) Room at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. It was very special since Mr. played football at the Navy Academy - he and his friends had a great time reminiscing about the good old days!

Blue Angel Jet at NMCMS

Cocktail Hour was held at the Flag Bridge (Superintendent's Box) = Best View in Stadium

Mr. asked if we could have a POW-MIA Table at our reception, and Cheryl at the N* Room was so accommodating. This table is usually set up at military dinners and celebrations. I made this frame for the table so that our non-military guests could see the significance and importance behind the table.

POW - MIA Table
Courtesy of the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia

This table is reserved to honor our missing loved ones or missing comrades in arms. Set for one, the empty place represents an American (man or women) still missing from anyone of five services - Army, Marines Corps, Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard. This ceremony symbolizes that they are with us, here in spirit. Some (here) in this room were very young when they went into combat; however, all Americans should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nation's call and served the cause of freedom in a special way.

The table is round showing our everlasting concern for our missing men (and women).
The tablecloth is white symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to duty.
The single red rose, displayed in a vase, reminds us of the life of each of the missing, and the loved ones and friends of these Americans who keep the faith, awaiting answers.
The vase is tied with a yellow ribbon, symbol of our continued determination to account for our missing.
A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of their bitter fate.
A pinch of salt symbolized the tears endured by those missing and their families.
The glass is inverted to symbolize their inability to share this evening's toast.
The chair is empty because they are still missing.

Please honor America's men and women who could not be here with us today.

Finally, cutting the cake with Mr.'s sword (Ignore my face here...Something about a sword makes me feel dangerous!).

There you have it - all the military traditions we incorporated into our wedding. While some military couples understandably don't include these details in their wedding (the military is everywhere else in their lives...why include it in their wedding??). We personally found that they added a special touch to ours.

wedding wednesday {accessories}

2010-04-21T13:16:00.001-04:00

For some reason I've been struggling with ideas for the blog or if I do have some ideas it's hard for me to get them down on screen. So, I'm taking the easy way out and I'm going to recap some of our wedding details.

I tried to break down the pictures into categories that make sense (well, in my mind). This week is all about accessories.

For my lovely bridesmaids, I found a fabulous Etsy store that sold a spa package that included spa slippers, a spa wrap and a makeup bag. I had them embroidered with their initials and names.

For the groomsmen, we got them a tie to wear for the day (for the ones not in uniform) and a crystal liquor decanter that we found on One Kings Lane.

My accessories for the big day included: A flower for my hair found on Etsy, my grandmother's pearl necklace and sapphire ring (for my something old, borrowed and blue), pearl stud earrings (Etsy) and a pearl bracelet (Etsy).

My paternal grandparents both passed away before I was born, and I was fortunate to have my maternal grandparents in my life. When my granddaddy passed away when I was 9, my grandmother (Memommy) gave me his bible. It is monogrammed on the front with his name. I'm actually named after him...I have his middle name. I knew I wanted to include my grandparents into my wedding day, and here is his bible in our wedding band pictures.

You may or may not know that Mr. EDO and I met in Monterey, CA while Mr. was in school at the Naval Postgraduate School. I was in CA visiting my BFF over the Fourth of July. It was insane week that included Kenny Chesney, Bushwackers, Lallapalooza, Wine Tasting, Tequila Tasting, Cougars, and on and on. Let just say that one evening after a long day of wine tasting, Mr. came to visit me and I wasn't in the best shape. He was hungry and I went along with him...after driving around he decided to go to the Black Bear Diner (which for you non-Californians, I describe it as a nice Denny's). From that moment on, I liked to tease Mr. EDO that our first date was at the Black Bear Diner. When I came back to CA for Labor Day weekend, Mr. met me at the San Fran airport with a cute black bear. (cue the awwwww's....)

All brides' standard accessory is the bouquet. I wanted something that was white and fluffy. It was absolutely perfect! I had a handkerchief embroidered with our names and wedding date. In addition, I had a ribbon tied around it with 3 charms: my grandfather's wedding band, a charm that Mr.'s parents gave me after we got engaged, and a charm my grandmother wore all the time.

Here are the bridesmaids' bouquets. They came out beautifully. I wanted them bright green and fluffy, and they looked great with their navy blue dresses.

And finally the groomsmen get accessories in the form of covers and swords. Here they are ready and waiting for the sword arch.

fluky friday

2010-04-09T13:46:00.000-04:00

I think I'm going to be starting a weekly fluky friday post due to a lot of randomness in my life that I don't think fills up an entire post.

I miss Atlanta. I miss my friends. I miss my family. I love Mr. EDO and I wouldn't change anything about our lives together, but I miss my Atlanta life. I'm grateful to have some of the best friends and family in the world who are still the best even though we're miles and miles apart.

Some things don't stay the same. One of my favorite places for margaritas and quesadillas in Atlanta was La Paz. It's a great restaurant in historic Vinings Village. It is located in the original First Baptist Church of Vinings building. Well, come to find out in my absence, they lost their liquor license (due to forgetting to reapply - DUH!!). So...their business had a significant drop off (what does that say about Vinings/Smyrna?? are we a bunch of lushes??), and at some point the ownership changed hands. Thankfully, they got their liquor license back about 10 days ago. Sadly, the service and the food were no where near its old glory.

Did anyone else learn in typing/computer class that you are suppose to put two spaces after a period. Well, today's website language doesn't like the extra space. Even as a marketing person who has spent a lot of time working on websites and website copy, this is still very hard for me to do. I'm sure you'll notice in this post there are some sentences that have 1 space afterwards and some have 2. I'm working on it!

Who knew? My husband's 4 Runner's cargo space is amazing. Things you wouldn't think would fit do. Earlier this year, we purchased a dresser for our bedroom on Craig's List. It was an older Ethan Allen dresser with clean lines and a LOT of cat scratches (oops, I still have to do a post on the before and after). It was cheap and amazingly fit in the back of the 4 Runner. Fast forward to this weekend, my old treadmill that has been at my parent's house for 5+ years fit inside the back of the 4 Runner. It's like Mary Poppin's bag...

Jello Mousse is awesome. It's an amazing, chocolatey 60 calorie treat. Our Publix is constantly sold out. They have every other Jello except the new mousse flavors. Thankfully a few weeks ago, we discovered that Costco is now selling them in a 3 pack (2 chocolates and 1 caramel). Mr. likes the caramel and I like the chocolate. Are we perfect for each other or what?

At Ikea last weekend, we purchased a curtain rod for our bedroom, 3 pictures frames to go above our bed to hide the fact that we don't have a headboard and 8 small mirrors that will go in our breakfast nook. They all need some adjustment: the curtain rod still needs curtains, the 3 frames still need something to go in them and the mirrors are unfinished and need to be stained. My mission for the weekend is to "try" to complete these projects. We'll see what happens...

Do you ever wonder what we did before the Internet? (Off topic, is Internet capitalized or not? My old boss went with the capitalized "I" so now I do to. What do you think?) Our Internet service seemed to go out last Friday. Since we were leaving town that day, we didn't have time to research the problem and fix it. When Mr. EDO got back on Sunday, he discovered that the culprit was our wireless route not our AT&T service. We are able to surf the web if the computer is plugged directly into the ethernet cable. Completely inconvenient once you are used to being able to surf all over the house! Tonight, we're going to research and hopefully purchase a new wireless router and life will return to normal.

Finally, while in Atlanta I purchase a new book - Summer at Tiffany. It was a memoir of two college age ladies from small town Iowa who decide to go to New York and find jobs for the Summer during World War II. After getting turned down by Lord & Taylor and other department stores, they took their chance at Tiffany becoming the first females to work on the sales floor. It covers a US war plane hitting the Empire State Building (during this part, you feel like you are fast forwarded in time to 2001 and she's writing about the World Trade Center), the rich and famous shopping at Tiffany, and the celebration in Times' Square after the Japanese surrender. It was a fascinating, quick read that would be perfect for beach or pool time (or in my case, flying).

I think that is all of my randomness for this week. Looks like we are going to be doing some minor yard work and small decorating projects around the house this weekend - OH, and watching the Masters. What are you up to this weekend?

going home for easter

2010-04-01T23:34:00.000-04:00

Mr. and I are headed to Atlanta for Easter weekend. Mr. is driving back to Jax on Sunday and I'm staying until Wednesday. I'm so excited to see my parents and my Atlanta friends. It's been too long!!

My rough agenda is:

Saturday morning stop at Ikea in search of cheap curtains and frames to finish staging our house (for when we FINALLY get orders)
Sunday Easter Service at my parents' church - I'm so excited for some traditional hymns
Monday lunch with some of my former co-workers
Monday dinner with friends at one of favorite restaurants in Vinings followed by drinks with the girls
Tuesday visit with a friend and her brand new baby boy
Tuesday dinner with two girlfriends at Seasons 52
Wednesday afternoon fly home to Mr.

In other random news, I found out today that Swoozies is closing. For you non-Atlanta readers (or other random cities that have Swoozies), they are closing and having a going out of business sale. They were one of my go-to places for Birthdays, Weddings, Bachelorettes or Babies. Sad.

Finally, we are STILL waiting on orders for Mr.'s next job. Last Tuesday we received positive feedback from the detailer (kind of like an HR or recruiter for the military), but we're still waiting on confirmation and decisions on the time frame. The waiting is killing me. Ah, military life...

Sorry for my completely boring and random post. I promise to do better next time.

this post is going to be legend - wait for it - dary

2010-03-29T23:59:00.001-04:00

During our dating life, I introduced Mr. EDO to HGTV and without my prompting he added House Hunters and My First Place to his DVR list. He introduced me to Food Network and I'm working becoming a better cook thanks to Paula, Bobby, Rachel and Guy.

After the wedding we had to work on merging our TV watching habits, he introduced me to How I Met Your Mother. Where has this show been my whole life?? I'm officially obsessed! It's like Friends meets Cheers - two classic American shows.

Also, I didn't realize how much a missed NPH. It's been too long since the Doogie Days. Come on admit it...you had a NPH pic from BOP magazine hanging in your room (probably right next to Fred Savage).

Since my obsession has grown since the beginning of this season, I talked my hubby into buying me Season 1 & 2. There are so many inside jokes about past shows, and I NEED to know the background.

This week Target made me the happiest girl in Jacksonville by putting all HIMYM seasons on sale for $14.99. First thing Sunday morning, Mr. and I headed to Target in for Season 3 & 4. I've already tackled Season 3 (so good!!) and I can't wait to start Season 4 tomorrow!

Thank you, Target! You are officially my favorite store of the week!

weekend trip around the world...

2010-03-24T17:05:00.001-04:00

Mr. EDO's sister and her boyfriend came to visit us last weekend and we headed to Orlando on Saturday and Sunday. Having grown up in Florida, I've been to the Disney World many times so I knew that I wanted to go to Epcot where I could drink my way around the world.

We arrived at Epcot and after snapping a picture we immediately headed to Soarin' to get a FastPass.

Epcot's Annual Flower and Garden Festival was in Full Swing. Lots of beautiful displays throughout the park.

After picking up our Soarin' FastPasses for 7:27pm - 8:27pm, we stopped by Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. The 3-D glasses are HOT!

We headed to England to get our drink on! (Don't you love how Mr. EDO poses for silly pictures for me!) :)

The Rose & Crown's Beer Sampler - I enjoyed the Strongbow.

Swinging through Japan

Wine in Italy

Another Wine Flight in Germany

Snow White with Doc and Dopey

We spent a lot of time in Mexico with our favorite Disney Cast Member, Nancy, who provided us with multiple Margaritas and Palomas. We had dinner in Morocco (not very good!) and then headed to Soarin' (aka the BEST ride at Epcot). We watched the fireworks show which was great if you have a good view (which we didn't!). We then headed to our hotel for the evening.

It took me a while to decide which park to go to on the Sunday. I had never been to Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom (side note: Why didn't I know that they stopped calling it MGM-Hollywood Studios??). The Magic Kingdom is always awesome and is completely Disney. The allure of Hollywood Hotel was too much so the Mr. EDO and I headed to Hollywood Studios.

There were lots of characters around the big magician hat. I didn't want to wait in line for a picture - I figured I have plenty of time for that once we have kids! So I took pictures of the characters with cute, random children. I hope their parents don't mind that I'm now posting them on the WWW.

Isn't Eeyore the cutest?? And Tigger was a lot more fluorescent than I expected him to be.

Mr. EDO was unusually excited about the High School Musical 3 show. I think he's the one who is going to be taking our kids to the future teeny bopper shows - AND I think he's going to love it more than them!

We had dessert at the 50s Prime Time Cafe. It was a lot of fun - I wish we had eaten there for lunch! Servers yelling at you to finish your plate, not talking on the cell phone, and elbows off the table. It was a great time!

Overall, we had a great time. I don't think we'll go back to Hollywood Studios - the best things about it was Hollywood Hotel and the Rock and Roll Coaster. If you have a park hopper, I'd suggest you go there at the opening and ride those two rides and head to another park.

a reminder to thank those who sacrifice

2010-03-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

I haven't lived the military life very long. I've known Mr. EDO for almost 3 years. Luckily for us, Mr. EDO is what the Navy calls a Restricted Line Officer, which means he isn't eligible for command at sea. In non-military speak means, that his job will generally not be deployed on a regular basis. But there is a real possibility that he will be placed on a IA (Individual Augmentation) where he could be deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan for anywhere from 6-12+ months.

About about a year and a half before we met, Mr. EDO transferred communities from Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) to his current restricted line community. Generally speaking, SWOs are deployed for 6-9 months at a time every 18-24 months - meaning that they are away from their wives, husbands, kids, family and friends for 6-9 months at a time every couple of years. This type of military life doesn't just require a commitment from just the service member but also every member of their family.

Men and women in every branch of our military go to work everyday knowing that there is a possibility that they will be asked to put their lived on the line for our freedoms. And everyday their families let them go to work knowing that they have signed up for a job that may not bring them home.

These men and women deserved our thanks and our appreciation for all the sacrifices they make for the United States. Sadly, sometimes these men and women make the ultimate sacrifice and do not make it back home to their loved ones.

Today in my Twitter feed appears a link asking for prayers for a fellow blogger. When I clicked on the link it brought me to a Marine Wife's blog A Little Pink in a World of Camo. Sadly, she lost her husband, soul mate, and father of her infant daughter. Today as a fellow military wife, I'm incredibly sad for her loss and mad for the unfairness of her loss. And also, incredibly scared for the rest of the military families that might be hearing that same news today and in the future.

Please pray for Mrs. P, her daughter and family - they need the strength of the entire country to help her through this incredibly tough time.

** I felt as though I needed to write this post as a reminder to myself and others of the sacrifices that our military and especially our military families make for our country. Please always support them in anyway you can. I hope it comes across the way it was intended. **

happy birthday pretty girl

2010-03-14T23:18:00.002-04:00

Happy 2nd Birthday to my pretty and smart niece.

If you were wondering what "Cool Aunt" gift I decided on, it was a hard decision. There are so many different toys out there and nothing jumped out at me. So, I went with something I always loved as a child...Gund Stuff Animals - they're so soft and fluffy. I went with these 3 all time kid favorites...Elmo, Big Bird and Cookie Monster. Hopefully, she's enjoying her 3 new friends.

Happy Birthday Pretty Girl! Auntie EDO loves you!

shape up while I walk

2010-03-14T17:20:00.000-04:00

I'm now the proud owner of some new Sketchers Shape-Ups thanks to the Exchange having a 20% off all athletic shoes sale and getting an extra 5% off on our scratch off coupon. I'm hoping that in a several weeks while putting many miles on my Shape-Ups I'm going to have firmer thighs and a tighter booty.

What do you think? Crazy gimmick or will these shoes actually work? Anyone else tried Shape-Ups? I'll post my review in a couple of weeks!

just plain evil...

2010-03-13T23:51:00.002-05:00

I've been bravely avoiding the girl scouts like the plague, but today I've found 2 things that are just as evil as the Thin Mint and the Peanut Butter Pattie...

The Reese's Egg (Mmmm....) and...

Wine and Cheese (more specifically - 2006 Charles Krug Cab (YUM!) and Aged Champagne Cheddar Cheese (Double YUM!)

I'm convinced there is some conspiracy against me....

you're always on my mind...

2010-03-12T22:45:00.000-05:00

So, I've decided to unload all the thoughts going on in my head these days...

I gave up my well paying job to move to Jacksonville to be with my husband (something I don't reget AT ALL). And The Jacksonville job market is apparently not looking for what I have to offer (a great marketing guru with her MBA - come on HR peeps, I'm a catch!). I've finally have had a few interviews - I'm hoping that one in particular works out. If not, the hubs and I are talking about starting a family. Is it the right time? Is there ever really a right time? Is it too soon?

We've been doing a lot of small updates and upgrades to our house in preparation of selling it once Mr. EDO gets his next orders (in fact, I need to blog about that once we finish our updates). Before leaving Atlanta, I sold my condo and we took a large (very large) loss on it...Goodbye all my hardwork saving for my downpayment! :( It's looking like we're going to have to another large (very large) loss on Mr. EDO's house here in Jacksonville as well. Will be able to sell at all? At how big a loss?

So, military life...I haven't been completely thrown into military life yet. When I met Mr. EDO, he was in his last six months at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California before he got his orders at Mayport, FL. So, I had my big Atlanta to Jacksonville move, but I haven't been moved by the Navy yet. And we're's going to be up for orders in the next 6-10 months depending on the needs (and budget) of the Navy. We've pretty much been discussing moving to Norfolk/Va Beach area for our next duty station because Mr. can take several different jobs in that area and there is a chance that he could be stationed somewhere in the Tidewater area for 6-9 years (a.k.a. we could buy 1 house and live in 1 house for 6-9 years!). Of course, all of this is based on the availability of jobs that Mr. would like, the jobs that are available, and, most importantly, the needs of the Navy. Have I mentioned yet that I'm a planner and I don't like not knowing where I'm going to be living in 12 months? Also, yesterday, Mr. EDO mentioned Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Doesn't he know that it snows a lot there?? I'm not sure I'm good at snow.

Those are my big, mind-bending thoughts for this week...Maybe I should start a "Thoughtful Thursday" or something... Anyways, any thoughts on my thoughts?

six months and counting

2010-03-05T08:57:00.003-05:00

We hit the big six months today - and everyday I have more and more reasons why I love Mr. EDO.

(almost) every Sunday he makes me a mushroom and cheese omelette.
every morning at dark o'clock he gives me kisses and "I love you"'s before he leaves for work
he contributes to my Coke Zero habit
he's becoming such a handyman
he won't let me take more than the recommended dosage of OTC medicine because he truly thinks 3 advil might harm me
he looks so cute in his khaki uniform (and I'll admit he looks cute in the blueberries too - even though I still hate them)
he the best co-host I could ask for
he's frugal (okay, I'll admit - I love him and hate him for this at the same time!) :)
he fits in so nicely with my family
he lets me watch a lot of HGTV
he introduced me to Food Network
he's going to be a great hands-on dad

Okay, okay...I could go on and on. I'm so lucky to have Mr. EDO as my hubby and I can't wait for all of our future anniversaries. I love you, Mr. EDO!!

happy birthday....planning

2010-02-25T20:55:00.002-05:00

For the past 2 years around this time of year, I completely stress about what to give my niece for her birthday. It's coming up on March 16th, and I always want to give her a perfect gift. And I totally want to be the cool aunt who give great gifts. :)

Last year I got her a Prince Lionheart Wheely Bug, which she LOVED and actually still uses from time to time. But I've been struggling what cool gift to give her this year.

Anyone have any "Cool Aunt" gift ideas for this cute and smart 2 year old??

h 2 o

2010-02-19T14:10:00.003-05:00

I've never really liked water. I grew up in a small town in Florida with very, very bad tap water, and then I went on to FSU in Tallahassee, which also has pretty bad tap water. I like to believe the first 2 of my living situations contributed to me never (and I really mean never) drinking water. From the googling I've done, it looks like adults should be drinking 1/2 their weight in ounces of water on a daily basis. Weight Watchers recommends that you drink 8 cups of water per day. In either case, I have never drank enough - except in my best WW days when I was following the program to a T.

In complete contrast, Mr. EDO is a human camel. The amount of liquids that he consumes on a daily basis is freaky. And of course everywhere we go, he has to take 99 bathroom breaks. I use to tell him that he had the bladder of a 12 year old girl. He also likes to preach about "Hydration is Key"... Key to what - I'm not sure! :)

Starting about 2-3 months ago, I committed myself to drink at least 8 cups of water per day. Most days, I'm drinking 8 - 12 cups each day. Now, I can no longer accuse Mr. EDO of having a small bladder. Drinking that much water makes that many bathroom breaks necessary!

Here are my water drinking tools:

My trusty Rubbermaid water bottle holds 32 oz, and I'm drinking 2-3 of these a day. Using a water bottle lets me know how much I've drank so far and how much more I need to drink for the day. Mr. EDO's Brita water filter that was of the best things I've gained in our marriage (I kid, I kid). It makes my tastebuds happy. I no longer hate drinking water.

The benefits I've noticed are:

better looking skin
feeling full and not eating as much
my slightly tight wedding band is now not so tight :)

So, my hubby is contributing to increasing my healthy habits. Has your significant other encouraged any health habits in you?

oh, curling, how I love you

2010-02-18T13:18:00.000-05:00

I have no specific memories of watching the 2006 Winter Olympics, but I'm totally into the Vancouver Olympics. I have especially gotten into curling. Who knew a sport that I totally don't understand could be so riveting.

I consider myself pretty knowledgeable when it comes to sports - football, baseball, golf, etc...I completely have a firm grasp of the rules and regulations. But it seems as soon as I think I understand the ins and outs of curling, the announcers come up with a new rule...

Normally, I would find this frustrating, but I think it is totally adding to the allure of the sport. Whatever the rules, bring on curling! I love it!

steak and potatoes

2010-02-14T12:56:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

My husband likes to tell me (and others) that I'm a steak and potatoes kind of girl - which is probably true, but not the whole picture. I wish I could each steak and potatoes everyday, but the reality is that I don't eat it very often due to trying to eat healthy and losing weight. Since today is Valentine's, Mr. EDO is taking me to my favorite restaurant, MORTON'S...yummy!!

We've been to the Capital Grille once in Buckhead (Atlanta), but I've never been to Ruth's Chris so I can't give a good comparison other steakhouses than to say I've never receive anything but wonderful food and stellar service at the Atlanta and Jacksonville Morton's...SO I don't think we should ruin a great thing, right?

Needless to say, I'm excited and my stomach is growling with anticipation for 7:15 tonight.

In other Valentine's Day news, my hubby and I went to the Navy Exchange to buy some Coke Zero (for non-miliary readers - it's a mall/Walmart/Target like place where you can purchase items tax free and sometimes at a discount). Since October or November, I had been eyeing a North Face jacket at the Exchange, but I had been waiting for it to go on sale. Yesterday on the way to the Coke Zero section, I say "Let's go see if my jacket is on sale". We proceed to the women's clothing section - NOT on sale yet. But the hubby grabs it and says, Let's go. WHAT??!! I'm now the proud owner of this awesome North Face jacket! Do I have a fabulous hubby or what??

I hope everyone has a FABULOUS Valentine's!

everyone has to start somewhere

2010-02-12T22:55:00.003-05:00

Yeh! My first post.

This is actually my second try at starting a blog. Due to planning a wedding, finishing grad school, packing my condo, selling my condo, and working full time, I think I completed about 5-6 posts. I'm hoping this attempt goes better than that first one! :)

I'll be sharing the adventures me and my Naval Officer husband, Mr. EDO. What does EDO mean?? Hmm, I think I'll save that for another post... :) I've got to keep you coming back for more, right?

Thanks for stopping by - I hope this blog will be a creative outlet for me and allow me to meet some interesting people along the way.

I'll leave you with a pic of me and Mr. EDO from our engagement pics.