The navy finally released the news that the boat is arriving on July 23rd in the morning. Some of you know how exciting this is. There is going to be a huge celebration for the arrival with the Navy Band, the Hawaii Glee Club, and some cute little hula dancers (children).
Gwyn is doing great. She has been standing on her own, but not walking. She seems so proud of herself when she stands and looks at me. I wonder what she is thinking. Even though she isn't walking on her own, she likes to push around this little toy stroller I bought her. I can't wait for Wes to see her push it for a few steps and do a little dance. Her daddy is going to be so proud of her.
As for the car, the navigation is finally working. When we bought the car, it was a used car but from the dealership. They cleaned out the car, you know, before turning it over to us. Well, cleaning out the car must also include throwing away the manuals. We didn't have an owner's manual nor the one to the navigation. So, when I took the car to the dealership here, he asked me if I had reset the nav to Hawaii. Now, how would I know how to do that? It must be covered in the manual, which I don't have. Anyway, they fixed it for us. I can now drive around Oahu with less problems.
Me? I'm hanging in there. I get a few moments in the morning to myself, which gets dedicated to the dog. And, I get a few moments at night. By then, I am so tired and exhausted that nothing to the house gets done. I try to maintain decent living quarters. The only thing suffering right now is the laundry. Thank goodness I have found so many clothes that I haven't been able to wear in about two years ('07 summer was the last time - '08 summer I was greatly pregnant with Gwyn).
Keep reading for more news as the time approaches for Wes's arrival. Gwyn and I are really getting excited. Wednesday night, it will be very difficult to sleep.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Sunday, July 5, 2009
What's Up
I know it's been a while since I posted any news on the blog. We have been busy as bees around here. I will try to sum it all up... hopefully I won't forget anything.
First, things haven't been going very well with the car. I ordered a new disk to include Hawaii maps on our Navigation. It took my a few extra days to get the disk because I was never home when they tried to deliver it. When I did get it, I put it in the car and... Voila! Just kidding. It didn't work. I apparently need a 2009 model Honda in order to have maps/diretions for Hawaii. I asked Wes if we could trade-in the pilot for a new one. No dice.
Next, I had to cancel the XM radio because there is no XM/Sirius in Hawaii. It took several phone calls to do such. The first person I talked with didn't believe me. The next person told me to buy a repeater. (No such device exists that will stretch the XM signal 2000 miles.) Finally, the last person said that I was farther than 200 miles from the West Coast, so therefore I won't have an XM signal within reach. Can we say "DUH"?
One good thing... I got a surprise phone call from Wes one morning. When I say morning, I mean at 4:45 am my time. I don't think he realized what time it was. For him, I don't mind. I didn't really care. I did wish that Gwyn was awake to make googly noises at him, but I didn't even think about trying to wake her up. BTW, Wes is doing great.
Another good, I am going to be inerviewed for a documentary on the USS Hawaii as a family member talking about my experience with the boat and our move to the island. I'm getting excited! I've never been on television (except once where I was making hand-made paper at the Institute for Paper Science and Technology in ATL). If I get copies, I will send it to whomever wants a copy.
As for Gwyn, she has been developing so fast and so much. The other day, she located the toilet and played in the bowl water. She also peed in the bath tub while I was washing her. She likes to use a red salad bowl as a hat. And, she is the most adorable when she sits on the floor and spins on her bottom only using her legs to spin her. I'm not sure how else to describe it.
As for me, I am hanging in there. With Gwyn waking up sometimes at night and Hera thinking 5:30am is wake-up time, I am losing sleep fast. I hate to, but I may have to start taking a nap during the day when Gwyn does. If there was only another way to clean the house, do laundry and take a shower....and sleep while she is napping. Any suggestions?
Anyway, I hope all of you had a great Fourth of July. We walked onto the beach and watched two different firework shows: the subase and downtown Waikiki. Lots of fun.
I wish I could stay up and write more. We love each and every one of you. Love hearing from you, too. Have a great week and good night!
First, things haven't been going very well with the car. I ordered a new disk to include Hawaii maps on our Navigation. It took my a few extra days to get the disk because I was never home when they tried to deliver it. When I did get it, I put it in the car and... Voila! Just kidding. It didn't work. I apparently need a 2009 model Honda in order to have maps/diretions for Hawaii. I asked Wes if we could trade-in the pilot for a new one. No dice.
Next, I had to cancel the XM radio because there is no XM/Sirius in Hawaii. It took several phone calls to do such. The first person I talked with didn't believe me. The next person told me to buy a repeater. (No such device exists that will stretch the XM signal 2000 miles.) Finally, the last person said that I was farther than 200 miles from the West Coast, so therefore I won't have an XM signal within reach. Can we say "DUH"?
One good thing... I got a surprise phone call from Wes one morning. When I say morning, I mean at 4:45 am my time. I don't think he realized what time it was. For him, I don't mind. I didn't really care. I did wish that Gwyn was awake to make googly noises at him, but I didn't even think about trying to wake her up. BTW, Wes is doing great.
Another good, I am going to be inerviewed for a documentary on the USS Hawaii as a family member talking about my experience with the boat and our move to the island. I'm getting excited! I've never been on television (except once where I was making hand-made paper at the Institute for Paper Science and Technology in ATL). If I get copies, I will send it to whomever wants a copy.
As for Gwyn, she has been developing so fast and so much. The other day, she located the toilet and played in the bowl water. She also peed in the bath tub while I was washing her. She likes to use a red salad bowl as a hat. And, she is the most adorable when she sits on the floor and spins on her bottom only using her legs to spin her. I'm not sure how else to describe it.
As for me, I am hanging in there. With Gwyn waking up sometimes at night and Hera thinking 5:30am is wake-up time, I am losing sleep fast. I hate to, but I may have to start taking a nap during the day when Gwyn does. If there was only another way to clean the house, do laundry and take a shower....and sleep while she is napping. Any suggestions?
Anyway, I hope all of you had a great Fourth of July. We walked onto the beach and watched two different firework shows: the subase and downtown Waikiki. Lots of fun.
I wish I could stay up and write more. We love each and every one of you. Love hearing from you, too. Have a great week and good night!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Hera Has Finally Arrived
This afternoon, Hera made her way to Hawaii. My Dad took her to the airport in Atlanta this morning, which was about midnight my time. (This was the second trip to the airport. Continental Airlines was supposed to take her the day before. When Dad got her to the cargo area, the airline said that her crate was too big. This would have been nice to know before Dad drove her 2 1/2 hours to the airport, then 2 1/2 hours back home. AND, it's not like Dad and I both asked repeatedly if her crate would fit on the planes. So, we called Delta. Thank you for bringing her to Hawaii.)
I went to the airport to pick her up this afternoon. She had a quick lay-over in Salt Lake City. I was quite amazed that she did very well with the flights. I was also able to get her from the airport, not the Quarentine Facility. She passed all her tests and paperwork with flying colors. The airport people helped put her in the back of the Pilot. She fit!!
Now, we are all here minus Wes. His arrival will be a little later. It will be nice to finally be back together again as a family. Gwyn has adjusted nicely. Hera is barking at every little noise (since all the windows are open for the breeze and no air conditioning). She will settle down eventually, I hope.
We miss all of you. Wish you all a wonderful week and weekend. Please write. I miss knowing what's going on.
I went to the airport to pick her up this afternoon. She had a quick lay-over in Salt Lake City. I was quite amazed that she did very well with the flights. I was also able to get her from the airport, not the Quarentine Facility. She passed all her tests and paperwork with flying colors. The airport people helped put her in the back of the Pilot. She fit!!
Now, we are all here minus Wes. His arrival will be a little later. It will be nice to finally be back together again as a family. Gwyn has adjusted nicely. Hera is barking at every little noise (since all the windows are open for the breeze and no air conditioning). She will settle down eventually, I hope.
We miss all of you. Wish you all a wonderful week and weekend. Please write. I miss knowing what's going on.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Our New Home, Continued
Gwyn Checking Out the LanaiI want to post some pictures of our new place a few days ago, but I lost my connecting cord for my camera. I finally found one this afternoon while unpacking. Of course, during any move you realize that the house you just rented/bought isn't big enough for all your stuff. Mom and I have been trying to fit everything that used to fit in a 1900 sq foot home into a 1200 sq foot home. It's challenging.
I am sure many of you have heard that North Korea wants to launch a missle at Hawaii. I've been following the news on this, but not too closely. I don't think I want to know too much to wish I hadn't moved to Hawaii. What a fine time to move here!!!
It's getting late for me. Below are a few pictures of the house and it's surroundings. We would love to have anyone visit.
The Front of the House
A View of the Beach from the Lanai(There is a row of houses between us and the beach.)
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Our New Home
We finally get to move into our new home on Iroquois Point in Ewa Beach, HI. We have been without all our belongings since March 18th. Tomorrow will be three months to the day, June 18th. I am so excited.
I miss my bed, other furniture, my clothes, Gwyn's new high chair (which she has never been able to use until now), and so much more. There are some of you out there that know exactly how I am feeling right now. Some, not so much.
I can now say... the bed and breakfast is open for business.
Let us know when you want to come for a visit.........
I miss my bed, other furniture, my clothes, Gwyn's new high chair (which she has never been able to use until now), and so much more. There are some of you out there that know exactly how I am feeling right now. Some, not so much.
I can now say... the bed and breakfast is open for business.
Let us know when you want to come for a visit.........
Monday, June 15, 2009
Hawaii, Here We Are
We finally arrived in Hawaii on Tuesday the 9th. It was a long and gruelling trip with a 9 month old on a 9 1/2 hour flight. But, we made it. The hotel was, however, a nightmare in the beginning. The first room wasn't clean and had ants around the kitchen sink. The second room wasn't safe for Gwyn. The shower spout was all mangled and ragged. The transition piece from tile to carpet had screws sticking out. So, we settled in on our third room. It's nice, finally.
In two days, we picked up the car, found a temporary place to live, took care of Hera's trip over and went to the beach. The car was already here which made things so much easier. Now, all it needs is a bath. I am still working on that. Hera will hopefully be flying over on the 22nd. She has no idea what is about to happen to her.
Our temporary house. Well, I believe the community used to be government housing. We have a three bedroom house with a beautiful view of the beach. There is a fitness center, day care, preschool/elementary school, Nex mini-mart and gas station. It's not the most beautiful house in the world, but it puts a roof over our head and money in our pockets.
Below are a few pictures from around the island. There will be more to come.
In two days, we picked up the car, found a temporary place to live, took care of Hera's trip over and went to the beach. The car was already here which made things so much easier. Now, all it needs is a bath. I am still working on that. Hera will hopefully be flying over on the 22nd. She has no idea what is about to happen to her.
Our temporary house. Well, I believe the community used to be government housing. We have a three bedroom house with a beautiful view of the beach. There is a fitness center, day care, preschool/elementary school, Nex mini-mart and gas station. It's not the most beautiful house in the world, but it puts a roof over our head and money in our pockets.
Below are a few pictures from around the island. There will be more to come.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Last Day In CONUS
In case you were wondering, CONUS stands for the CONtintental United States in government acronyms. Most of you all know that there are more acronyms than there are words in the english language - just kidding. It just feels that way sometimes in the military.
Well, Monday was Gwyn and my last day in Tennessee before heading to Hawaii. My other daugther, Hera the Great Dane, went to the groomers for a spa treatment. She was pampered and bathed. I know she doesn't appreciate the spa, but owners benefit the most from the better smell and beautiful, shiny coat. She looked wonderful!
Gwyn, Mom and I went shopping a little while Hera was being treated to luxury. I know we shouldn't have been buying more clothes. Lord knows, I have no more room in my luggage. My poor mom is using half a suitcase, while Gwyn and I have 5 and a half suitcases for this trip. I have maxed out two of the pieces and stuffed the other three to their brim. But still, I found a lovely pair of capris and a simple white skirt. Just what I needed, right?
After the shopping, we ate some lunch at home and then proceeded to finish the packing (which was started on Saturday). I kept finding more and more stuff all over the house. It's amazing how much you can spread out when you have been somewhere for three months. I know there are some things we could do without. However, I have been without all my belongings for the past three months with no end in sight as to when I will get it all back. How terrible, huh?
The best part about today was visiting with my Aunt Linda. Gwyn, by the way, is named Jane after my Aunt Linda. That's how special she is to me. Aunt Linda cooked a wonderful Southern meal that (as we say in the South) would make you slap your momma. I once again overate. And, where else can you get true southern sweet tea than at home. We had such a great time. I wish we could have stayed longer but we all needed to get home for showers/baths and sleep.
So, as you can tell, I am not sleeping. Right now, I am a little worked up over tomorrow's events. For those of you who know me, I am a planner. I have lists and reminders and so much going through my mind. I am not sure if I will go to sleep tonight. But, God will take care of everything. I am confident. Trust in the Lord, and He will provide.
For all of those we visited, we had such a wonderful time seeing you. For those of you we missed, I am truly sorry I couldn't meet with you. It breaks my heart that I didn't get to see you, and you didn't get to meet Gwyn. But, on the bright side, you can always come to Hawaii and see us. You are always welcome at our home (that is, once we get one).
We love you all! See you in Hawaii!!
Jen and Gwyn (and Wes will see you later)
Well, Monday was Gwyn and my last day in Tennessee before heading to Hawaii. My other daugther, Hera the Great Dane, went to the groomers for a spa treatment. She was pampered and bathed. I know she doesn't appreciate the spa, but owners benefit the most from the better smell and beautiful, shiny coat. She looked wonderful!
Gwyn, Mom and I went shopping a little while Hera was being treated to luxury. I know we shouldn't have been buying more clothes. Lord knows, I have no more room in my luggage. My poor mom is using half a suitcase, while Gwyn and I have 5 and a half suitcases for this trip. I have maxed out two of the pieces and stuffed the other three to their brim. But still, I found a lovely pair of capris and a simple white skirt. Just what I needed, right?
After the shopping, we ate some lunch at home and then proceeded to finish the packing (which was started on Saturday). I kept finding more and more stuff all over the house. It's amazing how much you can spread out when you have been somewhere for three months. I know there are some things we could do without. However, I have been without all my belongings for the past three months with no end in sight as to when I will get it all back. How terrible, huh?
The best part about today was visiting with my Aunt Linda. Gwyn, by the way, is named Jane after my Aunt Linda. That's how special she is to me. Aunt Linda cooked a wonderful Southern meal that (as we say in the South) would make you slap your momma. I once again overate. And, where else can you get true southern sweet tea than at home. We had such a great time. I wish we could have stayed longer but we all needed to get home for showers/baths and sleep.
So, as you can tell, I am not sleeping. Right now, I am a little worked up over tomorrow's events. For those of you who know me, I am a planner. I have lists and reminders and so much going through my mind. I am not sure if I will go to sleep tonight. But, God will take care of everything. I am confident. Trust in the Lord, and He will provide.
For all of those we visited, we had such a wonderful time seeing you. For those of you we missed, I am truly sorry I couldn't meet with you. It breaks my heart that I didn't get to see you, and you didn't get to meet Gwyn. But, on the bright side, you can always come to Hawaii and see us. You are always welcome at our home (that is, once we get one).
We love you all! See you in Hawaii!!
Jen and Gwyn (and Wes will see you later)
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