Same-sex Marriages.... What's the big deal?

If we as a society paid as much attention to the situations we have at hand that affects our everyday life as we do with things that are honestly none of our business, I would like to believe that our country would be run in a much better way...

With that being said, I sat down not too long ago and started to read the most recent edition of Time Magazine. Earlier this year, I came across an amazing deal for this magazine subscription. $2 for the whole year! Can't beat this price. Within the first couple of issues, I found myself becoming hooked on this one and always looking forward to receiving my weekly magazine. So, while reading this issue tonight I came across a small section that made me stop and of course sent me into one of my moments of debate. On page 14 in the bottom right hand corner, there is a boxed off area that shares this information:

In case you are unable to read this, because I can see that is it not as clear as I was hoping, it reads:

"Number: 764 Marriage licenses set to be issued by New York City on July 24, the first day for legal same-sex unions in the state. Lucky couples were to be chosen by lottery."

In no way am I writing this out of frustration or anger due to the same-sex "unions", but I find myself angered over other things that stand behind this. First off, why are same-sex marriages referred to as "unions" and not just marriage? What is the difference in people falling in love with someone over the same sex versus someone falling in love with someone of the opposite sex? Why should we as a society be so consumed in this that we lose sight of the meaning behind the relationship and marriage? So what, someone loves someone that is of their same sex? I love my husband and he is a man. What is the difference? Why should our country or anyone for that matter have so much control over who marries who and what others do and who they love? 

They say you can't help who you fall in love with. Isn't that what we are all taught and what we discover as we grow from children into adults? Yet, as a society, many find it okay to frown down upon others that happy and confident with themselves and their relationships with someone of the same sex. Why should they be labeled differently? Why should they have to refer to the one they love and are spending their lives with as their "domestic partner"? Really??? What's the big issue with them referring to that person as their spouse, their husband or wife? 

I have been blessed with some pretty amazing people in my life, not all of which "follow the rules" that society in general expect. There should be no rules, there should be no discrimination. I have not only friends that are in love with someone that shares the same sex they are, but family as well. And you know what, there is nothing that makes things awkward, nor does it change the love and the way I care for them as the person they are. There is no difference in my eyes as to who they are.  Does one that is in love and sharing their lives with someone of the same sex as opposed to someone of the opposite sex really any different that I am? Does it change their level of intelligence? Does it make them less of a person or weaker? Does it make them unable to follow, pursue, and accomplish not only their dreams, but all that they set out to do? Not in the least bit. They are no different that you or I in our relationships with someone of the opposite sex. 

To me, it takes an awful lot of self confidence to come out into our country and let it be known who you are in love with when there is that fear of how you will be treated in the days, months, and years to come. Guess what? The family and friends that I have that you may think of as "different" or "wrong" are really no different than any of us. They put their pants on the same and they accomplish the same things. They get an education. They go to work. They form careers and friendships. They enjoy life and live it to the fullest. They have their own families and take vacations. Is there anything different? Not at all. Who any of us choose to spend our days, nights, months, years, and life with is our business. To me, no I am not attracted to the same sex, but guess what, I am also not attracted to guys that have long hair or guys that are short or have bad feet or don't brush their teeth or wear thuggish clothing or are rude and obnoxious or are full of piercings.... and my list could go on and on. That doesn't mean I would write them off as a friend, it just means that I have my ways set in the type of person I find attractive and want to be with. My husband has the qualities I want in the person I have chosen to share my life with. If you stop and think about it all, we each have our own likes and dislikes in the person we choose to spend our lives with. 

If we as a society would stop spending so much time interfering and trying to control things that are quite honestly none of our business, then our country would be headed in a better direction. We spend so much time focused on things that we have business being apart of and spending money as well as spreading headaches over this control issue we have in things that are never are concern. It should not be a big deal in same-sex relationships to slowly be able to complete their bond by marriage, because it should have never been such a big deal to begin with. If a man and a man love each other of a woman and a woman love each other then they should have always been allowed to marry each other. 

I hope that one day in the near future, this is something that becomes legal across the United States. I hope that people learn look past the same sex, and instead, look a little closer at the person and people are that they are judging. I see absolutely no reason that there should be any laws, rules, or regulations on who we as an individual choose to fall in love with and marry. When I look back over the years and the ones I have been blessed with, there are many that have fallen in love with someone of the same sex as they are, and truth be told I could not be any happier for them. I see them happier with their spouse than I see many opposite sex marriages. Maybe it's because at the end of the day, they already know that the truth is the best way to go. 

So, next time you or someone you know, feels the need to judge anyone for finding happiness in something you find of no interest, be careful before you are so quick to judge and be happy for everyone around you that has be lucky enough to just find the person they want to share the most intimate to the smallest details of their lives with. Regardless of their gender, height, weight, clothing style, makeup, beauty, or anything else, they are really no different than me or you, except they may have a little more strength and understanding behind them.

Check Out and Follow Me on My Other Blogs....

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On this blog, you can join in our chaotic and nonstop journey of parenting, marriage, family outings, challenges in with the army and our health, and much more! Let's not forget the funny moments and things kids say!

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Also, check out my blog where I vent and share some of our emotional life details as we walk the road with my husbands PTSD, TBI, and other combat injuries. I started this blog as my outlet.... since then, it has just grown! 

Feel free to leave comments on both! 

♥ Britt

As always, thanks for following and reading my random thoughts! More to come soon!!!                   

Strike or Not to Strike

Have you ever come across something that made you think about Bill Engvall and “Here’s your sign…..” One of these moments just occurred to me. I logged onto facebook and had a few requests for me to join in on the March 10 Gas Strike…. Really? Do people really feel this will work? Do people really feel that not filling up today, tomorrow (March 10), or the following day will actually do anything? Regardless if you choose to fill up on these days or not, you are going to eventually need gas again. In return, the gas companies will still end up with their money and you will only screw yourself. Refusing to purchase gas and to become a follower on the most ridiculous strike will do nothing to change neither the current nor the future oil market. However, it will just take more out of your wallet when you wait for the few days to pass before filling up.

Think about this; if everyone refuses to fill up and says they are not going to use oil not much good will come out of it. Not filling up tomorrow is only going to lead these people that follow this to pay more when the weekend rolls around and gas prices have increased another ten cents. In less than a month, the prices have increased from forty cents to over a dollar per gallon! Wouldn’t it be smarter to just fill up as needed?

Everyone also needs to keep in mind that with the inflation of gas prices comes many other negative things that will affect our everyday lives. Our groceries are going to increase quite a bit as will the cost of our everyday needs. Everything will increase. Are the people that fall for the “strikes” going to go all out and strike on everything that is a part of everyday life? Or are people going to come to the realization that nothing can be done and at the end of the day we will have to pay the price for the things we need. The best thing that can be done is to watch your spending and continue to be cautious on the things that are purchased.  If gas prices are eating you alive, as it is most of us, invest your money in a smaller car. It may not be something that you want, but it will get you a lot further!

Will I be filling up within these few days….no. Only because I have a full tank of gas in my Xterra and have no need to fill up at this moment. Not because of this crazy idea that has been conceived by the most naïve people ever. Though, it does make me want to go out driving all over the place tonight just so I can fill up tomorrow… Too bad gas is so expensive and I have nowhere to go! Lol . Don't think that because I am not seeing eye to eye with this situation that I am at all okay with the cost of gas and filling up my vehicle. Believe me, I am not at all. There is nothing kosher about spending $60 to fill up my truck today when a two weeks ago it was $45. However, I do realize that there is not a whole hell of a lot that I can do. I can cry and pitch a fit like others over the damage this does to my bank account. But, really, how far will that get me? Instead, I have decided to re-evaluate how my family and I live our lives and make changes around this situation at hand.

Pit Bulls & Parolees ~ Amazing

~Pit bulls and Parolees ~

I typically do not find anything admiral about parolees, due to the nature of the known likelihood of them repeating the original offense or adding to their record by committing some other type of crime. With this being said, I DO NOT feel this way toward every parolee. I do have someone in my family that has served time in prison for making wrong choices in life. However, this person I am speaking of straightened his life while in prison and today is an ordained minister. He is an amazing person who truly made a wrong choice in life, has never tried to make an excuse for his wrongdoing, and who made the best out of the situation. I do not in any way condone what he did, but I respect and admire the outcome. I hope that makes sense.

In the vast majority of cases, we see parolee’s repeating the offense, getting caught back up in the wrong crowds, remaining hooked on drugs, involved in gang activity, continuing to rape young women and children, continuing to find troubles with alcohol, repeat offenses of child and domestic abuse…. You name it. The list just goes on and on. When a parolee is released from prison most people turn their heads in the other direction, not wanting to provide any assistance…. Or maybe they are just tired of being that person that is always bailing someone out. Any way you go about it, it is easy to turn your head and just walk away. At some point or another people need to get their acts together and keep them out of trouble. At the end of the day, you can’t help someone that is not willing to help themselves.

Back to my original subject line of Pit bulls and Parolee’s; I have become so addicted to this show on Animal Planet! It is unreal how I can sit for a few hours and watch episode after episode.  I can’t help but to have so much respect for the woman that runs this program. Her life revolves around the pit bulls that she has taken in, her children, her husband who is in prison, and her parolee’s. What amaze me even more are the chances and the opportunities at life that she gives not only the pits, but also the parolee’s. To me, that has to be so rewarding for her when she sees these guys making changes for the better. I know I am amazed and filled with joy when I see them pushing for a better life! After all, life is what you make it in the end. Sure, from time to time, the parolee that cannot seem to get their act together gets locked back up. But, that goes with any situation in life. We all take ten steps forward and five steps back at times (sometimes ten forward and fifteen back, just depends on the person and their moral’s I suppose). No one ever said life is supposed to be easy. It is just how you handle it and maintain certain situations. When we fall, we need to learn how to act quickly and begin picking up the pieces. As I watch the show and see different emotions surface, I learn that Tia is always full of love, sacrifices, second chances, surprises, and hard work. She never stops. I see the ex-convicts working their way to a better lifestyle with one step at a time. Baby steps are what it takes to make it in the world once you have a record on hand. What amazes me the most though, is her strength and will to help rehabilitate the ex-cons and pit bulls from all different backgrounds and situations. This show is proof that people can make the best out of terrible decisions, mistakes, and circumstances; just as it shows regardless of what a dog has been through, he or she can still be your best friend. Pit’s are not everyone’s enemy as the media hype has made them out to be. I think she is doing an amazing and selfless job with everything she has on her plate.

Toddlers & Tiara's

Toddlers & Tiaras

I absolutely LOVE watching TLC, NATGEO, Animal Planet, and so many other channels, as well as the shows they allow audiences to view. I love certain reality shows. Not the trash type ones, but the ones that let you into the real lives of other people. Whether it be Real Women of Dallas/Cincinnati, Ganglands, Border Wars, Sarah Palin’s Alaska…whatever. I really enjoy the shows that leave you thinking about life; the ones that can open your eyes to what others have been through, and have you wanting to make changes or know what roads not to go down. However, the one show that really gets under my skin, more than any other show, is Toddlers in Tiara’s.  Really? Moms and Dads out there that participate in this or even consider participating in this need to be slapped! How do you even find it acceptable to put your daughters through this mess? Yes, I am aware that every little girl wants to look, dress, and feel like a princess, I do have two of my own, but to subject your daughters to a world that they have no business in is just not right for many reasons. Your children need to hold onto their innocence as long as possible and embrace childhood. They do not need to be paraded onto stages, dressed in ten pounds of makeup, spray on tans, hair all made up and perfect, heels, “cone” boobs, and bratty attitudes. That is just beyond ridiculous. When do they have the opportunity to even act as a child? Oh wait, is it their time when they are practicing or about to go on stage, pitching a fit, with a pacifier in their mouth? If you are going to subject them to that type of environment then at least pull the pacifier out! They can’t be both baby and “grown” child. Make your pick.  Every time I see the commercials for this show I just cringe. It seems so unfair for these little girls. The one that really makes me go insane is the bratty girl, standing near the stage, screaming with a pacifier in her mouth. She needs to lose it! I could never bring myself to watch that show just because I feel it is wrong! Sure, put your daughters in beauty pageants, I see no issues with that. However, there is no reason to make your child live the life of Toddlers in Tiaras. No child at the toddler stage should know what a full out competition is or should know how to throw a tantrum because they did not win. No toddler should know the term “diet” and find it acceptable that they need to remain a certain size.

*Before any comments are made, no I am not an overweight woman. I am 5’3” and 115 lbs at most. I do have two daughters, they are 8 and 9 and both tall and slim. So, being overweight is not even an issue in my house. Yes, we eat healthy, but no, we do not stick with strict diets.* 

Children of the toddler age, and even older, need to be around children of their own ages. They should be learning how to properly communicate and their brains should be filled with subjects such as the alphabet, colors, shapes, numbers, Church and Jesus, children’s songs, family outings, and so much more. They should be outside playing at the park, riding their bikes and tricycles, playing tag and hiding-go-seek, swinging and sliding, playing in the dirt, finding pure excitement in a new puppy and growing with their new family member. Oh, how my list could go on and on. Put them in dance, gymnastics, or any other sport that they find intriguing. You should not be pushing them onto a stage, prancing around in small outfits, showing off their innocent bodies, and making moves that the girls are your local strip club are making. Parents of today’s society should be examined before they are allowed to be blessed with children. You should never live vicariously through your children. This is their lives, let them enjoy it. Let them have the memories that most of us have as they mature into adults. Let them interact with children their own ages. LET THEM BE CHILDREN!  There should be certain times and certain ages before a child is allowed to act the way you allow your children to act. They should grow up knowing the meaning of class and respect, as well as holding onto to their innocence. 

Rock On Man

I have to say that I am that I, for one, find it amazing that this homeless man, Ted Williams, is finding light at the end of the tunnel. After years of being down on his luck, it seems things are truly looking up for this man. To all the negative people that I have already heard speak of him, you all need to change your negative attitudes. We all have a past, some worse than others. Some we would love to change. But, in all reality, we know we can’t. What has been done is in the past, so let’s leave it there. I have to say that I am pleased to see this man that was homeless, once addicted to drugs and living the “bad” life, is picking up the pieces. He is finding his faith in God again and wanting to get on the right path. Yes, he may have been discovered because of some video that was posted on the internet, but that one simple video could be exactly what this man needed in life in order to make his life one that he can be proud of. As well as his family. After years of being estranged from his family, this man is finally back in touch. He knows that only he can help himself, that he has to be the one to live the right life. Kraft Mac & Cheese has already offered him a place to live as well as a stable job in voice for their products. Personally, I think it is pretty awesome.  I think it is a blessing that Ted Williams, who is 53, can make a mends with his mother, who is 90. For this man’s sake, his mom, and hid kids, I hope he is able to proceed in the voice radio/commercials or whatever. I hope he keeps clean and stays off the streets. After watching him on Good Morning America just now, it seems like he is going to do exactly that. So, to all the ones making such harsh judgment, take a step back and look at your life. I am sure you are far from perfect. I am sure you have made you fair share of things “mistakes” that others would not be proud or very happy about. Obviously, Mr. Ted Williams has talent, or there would not be so many companies’ throwing offers his way. I mean, they don’t hire just anyone. So, let’s give this man, who is two years sober, a break and let him enjoy his new life! I give him mad props and have to say Congrats Mr. Williams for pulling yourself together and for finding you break in life! I hope it all works out for the best for this man and he takes this opportunity and runs! Make the most out of it all!

It goes to show if this man can pick back up, remain addiction free, and live a better life…then why can’t we all? We should all focus on making 2011 our year. It is time we all pick up the pieces in our lives; quit blaming others if it isn’t going the way we hoped. Only you can make your life better. It isn’t up to everyone else to turn your life into the right direction. The only person who can make your life better is you. You have to take that first step in the right direction! I know I plan on making big changes this year. Ones that I can’t exactly reveal at this moment. But, ones that will all be for the better and I am very excited about! I plan on letting no one hold me back or keep me down. There will be many major changes in my family life as well! We will fall back under the civilian life, well as much as we can with my husband being medically retired. Anyhow, life is what you make of it. If you want to be a miserable person, then so be it. But, don’t expect to find me in your living hell. Thanks, but no thanks. I would rather remain in the group of positive people! I plan on enjoying my life this year and every year to follow. There is just something about being faced with death and lying on your death bed that makes you open your eyes and appreciate the finer things in life. So, if you find me not communicating with you as I use to, take a step back, evaluate your life, and see if there is a reason I have pulled myself away. This is our year people! Let’s make the most out of it and make it the best one yet!

Some of my Thoughts on This Upcoming Veteran's Day

" This Veteran's Day we honor those who have so bravely served this country. America is founded on the principle of freedom, justice, and liberty. Our nation's soldiers serve every day to protect our country and it's ideals. On Veteran's Day, take a sacred moment to remember those who sacrifice their lives every moment to achieve peace and democracy."



I remember as a kid Veteran's day held little meaning. Of course I understood the reason behind it, but it wasn't anything huge. Yes, I have had family in the military...Still, it didn't hold the proper meaning. However, now being older and of course wiser it is a day that brings tears to my eyes, because not only do I understand it, but I live with it! My husband is in the Army and has been for quite awhile now. We have lived through two deployments and he currently suffers through PTSD as well as other combat related issues and injuries. He has had to endure two surgeries due to nerve damage that also left him somewhat paralyzed in both hands. Now, he has feeling and movement. He has permanent pain and issues that no amount of surgeries or medication can "fix". So, my point is, I now get and understand this day honoring our Vet's. Sadly, in my opinion, that it takes this day for some people to say Thank You or to honor them. These men and women, as well as their immediate families live with life changes on a daily basis. I know we do. There are no amount of words that could describe the "changes" or the difference deployments make in our lives. So, unless you are living it or have lived it, please keep your negative and know it all comments and opinions to yourself. Because, quite honestly, you have no clue on this life!

With that being said, I came across an interesting story on the Washington Post today. It was someone that lived the military life visiting with his family at Walter Reed. It was a comment that he wrote about that caught my attention, one that is so true and one that took him many years to realize. It made me want to share it with anyone who reads what I write. Here is what he wrote:

"I never thought much about the meaning of Veterans Day -- strange for someone who spent 26 years in the Army. But last year I got it: Memorial Day is to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and Veterans Day is to honor those who have to live with the sacrifices they made."
and
"Veterans Day is for honoring all these brave young people who are the vanguards of freedom for this generation, as well as to honor those who suffered similarly in previous generations. Take a moment to remember the sacrifices they will have to live with -- God bless them."


How true this is. Memorial Day is for honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. In my honest opinion, the families left behind should also be honored on this day. They too sacrificed more than many of us will ever sacrifice. And, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you. You are never forgotten. I have friends who are living this living hell every day! One day a year to remember their loved ones it just not enough. What happened to our patriotism?  Just as Veteran's Day is the day so many people choose to look at a Vet and say Thank You. Do you realize that everyday their lives are different than before they were in a warzone? As well as the life of their spouse and children?  Every "thank you" means so much to these men and women as well as their families. I swell up with pride when we are walking somewhere and Kevin is in his uniform and someone stops us, shakes his hand, then just says "thank you for your sacrifices sir", then turns to me and the kids and continues to tell us thank you for ours as well. That means the world to me. We do give up so much for him to put his life on the line. Do I think we should be treated any differently, absolutely not. We do this and live this life because we want to. But, appreciation and understand from others goes such a long ways! I mean, when you go to bed at night and can see your spouse and know every night they will be next to you, be thankful. Since 2003 I have yet to spend one full year with my husband by my side every night and not one birthday or Mothers Day has he been home to spend it with me. Am I complaining? No. I am just stating the obvious. The only two anniversaries I have been lucky to have him home were spent in the hospital, both surgery related. He has also missed the many special events and occasions at home with our children. Like the first nine, almost ten, months of our sons life. Not to mention the countless days that the army has him. But, in the end, he is in the Army and I can say proudly my husband has served his time overseas in war zones. He's a Veteran that I am privileged to have by my side and honor everyday.


From the bottom of my heart, thank you to each and every one of you that have sacrificed! You are never forgotten! As, well as to the families that continue living this life, thank you! 


Some Quotes that I will leave you with...




"In War, there are no unwounded soldiers" ~ Jose Narosky


"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave."
~ Elmer Davis


"Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die"  ~ G.K. Chersterton


"It is easy to take liberty for granted when you have never had it taken from you" ~ Dick Cheney


"Our Veteran's accepted the responsibility to defend America and uphold our values when duty called"  ~ Bill Shuster


"The willingness of America's Veteran's to sacrifice our country has earned them our lasting gratitude"  ~ Jeff Miller


I have many more, but I will leave you with these for the time. Thank  you to my husband who has missed out on so much, yet has done what so many others are too selfish to do. Your selfless acts have never gone unnoticed or taken for granted. We love you more than words could ever say. I thank God every day for watching over you and bringing you back home to us. Our future is always one day at a time, but I know, without a doubt, we have so much to look forward to! Thank you and I love you! You are mine and the kids true hero!

It Takes More Energy....

Every time I drive towards Fort Bliss I always come across homeless people! They are on the street corners, the medians, and anywhere else they feel the need to be. They walk up and down the streets, some in nice clothes, others in rags. They hold up signs begging for money. They even have the nerve to walk up to car windows then get pissed when you shake your head or tell them no. First off, I rarely have cash on me and even when I do, the last thing I am going to do is hand it off to some pan-handler! Last time I checked, my husband and I work to earn our money (work the legal way), we pay our bills, we do right. We don't stand on some street corner! Another thing, do they not realize that it takes way more energy to wear dark clothes, walk up and down the street in a bright, sunny city like El Paso, which is typically hot; than it does to go to the local Burger joint and actually work the right way?!?! It has always been one of my irritations to see these people down right beg, I mean I am from the Atlanta area where it is a whole lot worse. But, come on people. Even if you enjoy doing it because you actually make money, do something legit! I have seen the cops out here pull over just to tell them to get off the freaking streets!

Corrupt Cartoons

Most people would see nothing wrong with their three year old watching Spongebob, I mean it is a cartoon that is  played on Nickelodeon. Therefore, it should be a totally legit show, right? I thought so too until it hit me one day, Mr. Crabs lives in Bikini Bottom!!!! OMG, that is not even right! It is a good thing that my child, like many others, do not see the corrupt and adult humor behind this cartoon! However, through all the programs that are now on television, you can't help but to laugh. I mean, really, it is kind of creative when you think of Mr. Crabs living in Bikini Bottom.... 

There are so many other cartoons that have different scenarios and thoughts put behind them. Some being adult humor, others being on the racist side...

This is just another one of my thought after watching tv shows with the kids!

Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better

Okay, so seriously?!?! I have a few people in my life that I have decided it is time to start cutting ties with. Why would any part of me want to continue a "friendship" with someone that always has a comment, such as "oh yea, well if you think that is bad, let me tell you about this time...." or, if I say I am not feeling well and people have to try to out do me with being sick. Seriously people? I really wish I wasn't battling health issues and that I wasn't having to live my life day to day without making plans because I never know how I will feel tomorrow. And, there is not a single ounce in me that is wanting you to feel bad or anything when I say it is an "off" day for me. But, by all means, do you really need to not feel well on the same day (every time) or do you really need to try to out do me with every freaking thing I say? This gets real old and so very annoying! Cut it out! Since it seems to get worse the more I am around someone, I have decided to no longer keep these people in my life. I would rather just live with my husband and kids and no one else around than to always have a one upper in my life! They really need to get a life! The funny thing is, these people can never figure out why they have NO friends!!! How can you not see this? You are annoying and a pain in the ass that no one cares to associate themselves with. I say all of this knowing that I am not the only person that feels this way about a handful of people since others have mentioned it to me as well over time! Lol, you can't help but to hum the tune of "anything you can do I can do better..." I have come to the conclusion that all of these "one uppers" that I have come in contact with have a very low self esteem, are very insecure and no self confidence! If they did, they would not always try to make themselves look and feel better, all the while people around them are thinking they are complete and total morons and idiots. So to all of you who know what I am talking about and the kind of people I am referring to, just get away from them. They are toxic friends, and in the end you will just want to choke them! Have you ever noticed that normally you want to ask questions when friends tell you something, but these people are the ones who you just wish would shut up because they never stop! Oh, and there is always something wrong with them! Come on, life is way too short to be this kind of person or to even associate ourselves with them! So, to those people I am referring to, I will be cutting ties with all of you! You contaminate my life as well as everyone elses! I have no need to be around people that make me want to slap the stupid off of them!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month... Squish a Boob, Save a Life

We all know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.... but how many people actually take this month seriously? Lets do something, starting this year, 2010, every woman needs to take this month more serious! Breast cancer is not something to play around with, nor is it something that should be ignored or pushed to the side. My great grandmother had it years ago, I have a cousin that had it, Kevin's grandmother lost her life due to her battle with it, my best friends mom lost the long battle from it in 2006.... Breast Cancer is not a joke! If it is caught early enough, lives can be saved! Also, most people are under the impression that only women can be diagnosed with breast cancer, heads up people, men can as well! It is just an  uncommon thing, but it does happen! If you notice any changes, see a doctor!

Things to think about:

Aside skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women.
It is more common among white women.
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, lung cancer coming in first.
2.4 million women living in the US have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer.
Out of 192,370 cases that are diagnosed, 1,910 are expected to be men.
Over 40,000 deaths from breast cancer were anticipated in 2009... I am looking for 2010.
If your parent, sibling, or child has been diagnosed, then you stand an increase in developing breast cancer. PLEASE GET CHECKED!!!
Women who began menstruating before the age of 12, stand am increased risk in developing this form of cancer, as well as women who have more menstrual cycles.

It is very important to know the signs and symptoms....what to look for. We are all aware of the knots and different feeling to look for. One thing that is not very known due to its rare cases is Inflammatory Breast Cancer, or IBC. This is a rapid growing form, making the breast red, swollen, tender and could even look like you have a rash. It can be confused with a breast infection and is known as a locally advanced cancer. Therefore if you notice a change, get is checked out! Better to be safe than sorry.

Many forms of cancer have taken the lives of people I love and miss terribly. Cancer is no joke and not something I play with. Right now my own husband has skin cancer. Granted it can be treated, he still has it and I keep waiting for the next appointment just to hear the words of him being in remission. Hearing he had cancer brought me to tears. So, if you notice changes anywhere on your body, you feel knots or lumps, don't blow it off. Call your doctor, go to one of the free screenings that are always all over the US, do whatever you have to do in order to save your life or the life of someone you love!

A woman’s chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer is: 
From age 30-39 . . . . . . 1 out of 229 
From age 40-49 . . . . . . 1 out of 68 
From age 50-59 . . . . . . 1 out of 37 
From age 60-69 . . . . . . 1 out of 26 
From age 70-85. . . . . . .1 out of 8

The Untold Challenges & Obstacles...

There is so much that I want to say as a spouse of someone who suffers from PTSD, someone that has on more than one occasion done the selfless act of deploying to a war zone, someone that has put them self on the fighting line time and time again....too  many times to count. PTSD is one of the things the returning military may have to face and may battle throughout the rest of their lives based on things they saw, lived through, or heard while overseas. Yes, I am fully aware that it does not take being in a war zone in order to be diagnosed of PTSD, but there is something about being shot at, using weapons in order to keep yourself and the ones around you alive, being on a FOB with mortars, RPG's, and other things going on all around you for a year or so straight that makes the forms of PTSD different. It breaks me down to see the man I love not sleep most nights, jump at sounds that make no difference to most people, constantly watching his surroundings, skeptical of people and places, no longer finding the joy of going out in busy, crowded places.....oh, how I could go on and on with the "small" things I have witnessed. When my husband enlisted, of course we knew about the pure and simple fact he would deploy at some point, but we we never told how he would deploy and come back a different person, how the smiles would be lost to the war. How he would no longer find pleasure and joy in the things he use to. It is like the war took my husband and sent home a man that I have had to get to know more and more each time he goes over. It has also made each of us cherish the time together and see the importance in life.

Why do people often make the comments that the ones being deployed chose this life? I mean, don't we all choose the lives we are in for the most part? I mean, you do what you have to and you make the best out of it. Or, at least, that is what we try for. No matter what life has handed us, good or bad, we try to make the best in every situation. So, for the comment about choosing this life, to me is ridiculous and I, for one, am so tired of hearing it! This life that we have choose for us and our family is what helps to keep the draft out. Regardless of the reasoning, it is never a bright idea to tell someone or their families they "chose" this life. Especially when you are too much of a coward to do it yourself. Yes, I have earned my right to speak freely. I did try to enlist a little over four years ago and was turned down by MEPs for a medical problem that leaves me life dependent on medication and there is no way the doctors would give me a waiver to go through basic. So, I did try, unlike so many others who think they can say whatever they feel at any given time.

People, no matter what a person chooses, no one should make such a rude statement when it comes to PTSD. This is a terrible disease, and until you have either lived with it or stood beside a spouse who suffers from it, you have no idea! Even as a spouse, there is so much I to this day still do not fully understand. And I never will because I wasn't there. But, I do know what it is like to send my husband away and watch him return a different man, one that I have to get to know, yet one that I love more and more with every passing day. I just wish the recruiters had warned us before hand about the changes we would face. Even after all these years, I wish we had known more when he enlisted. Would it have changed anything. No, not at all. It would have just made us in a sense better prepared for this life and the challenges and obstacles that were to come.

There is so much more I want to go on about, however it is getting late. I am going to bring this topic to a close for the night and possibly pick back up on it later.

Neighbors From Hell

To wake up to a whining, howling, barking dog after a night of not being able to sleep is a really atrocious way to start off a Monday morning. Yes people, this is how I began my day. It seems every week there is something different with these people. There are like ten people living in this house, two kids that I have seen (one that seems to be a good kid, the other I feel like slapping), two cars in the driveway, one rundown truck that parks across the street from the house, and one that is sitting in between our property line and theirs! Umm.... HELLO! What did I miss. Since when is it okay to have a trashed out piece of crap looking car sitting in front of someone else's house? Have they not heard of respect? This car has probably sat in the same spot for over a month, never being moved and terrible looking! The woman is from Juarez and speaks very limited english, so the son has to translate everything! I know this because I have spoken to her once and about lost my mind. The day after we moved into our new house, my husband had to go into work to sign out for leave, and this four year old knocks at my door. People, I am trying to unpack and get my house ready before I undergo surgery the following week! I open my front door to see what he wants. He speaks NO english!!! None at all. I call my kids to the door to see if they can get a better understanding. Yes, I realize how sad that is. The kids and I make an attempt to talk to the mom, no luck. She comprehends nothing at all of what we said. After taking this kid back home and our unlucky attempt at talking to her, she proceeds to let him come back over four more different times! Finally his dad was home and attitudes came out. We made it known not to let their kid come back over. Now, the one thing I can not seem to quite get a grip on is what in the hell is a four year old doing walking over to someones house they do not know and their parents having no care in the world over it? The next day, my family and I were standing outside with two of our friends that had come by, allowing the kids to ride bikes and play. Well, this kid comes running outside, ends up making us all crazy because he is mean as can be, takes my toddlers toys away and runs off. This kid ends up falling and getting hurt, when his mom comes out with one of her friends, sees her friend off, glances over in our direction and then runs back inside. What mother is not going to stop when she sees three very large, grown men around her son? I would freak out, then again, my child would not have been outside without me at that age! She never came back out. They also had two dogs, one that every freaking time any of us would walk outside, they would bark and growl nonstop, to the point if it wasn't immoral or illegal I probably would have done something incredibly mean to this damn dog! But, that just isn't me. They finally got rid of the dog after all the nonsense and the fact that the dog jumped over my backyard wall and into my yard while my kids were playing. The neighbor then heard me run my mouth about if he ends up biting one of my kids, I will shoot his dog. Wouldn't any loving parent do that? I'm just saying.... So when they got rid of the dog, I got so excited thinking no barking every time I step foot in my backyard. Maybe they will start cleaning their dog poop covered yard and we won't always smell that stench. I was on cloud nine, even with all their late night partying that is also getting so very old. Then, this morning to wake up to a new dog back there with all of his loud, annoying noises???? What am I to do now?

NEIGHBORS FROM HELL IS ALL I CAN TRUTHFULLY COME UP WITH AT THIS POINT!

These people are terrible and I would not wish them on anyone! The things that cross my mind are so inhuman and so unlike me!

I should post a note on their front door.... maybe even have it translated, simply saying:

If you are going to have an animal, take care of it! Keep it from howling, growling, whining, and barking all hours of the night. Oh, and clean up it's crap, I am tired of smelling the nastiness even in my house! Gross!
If you are going to have kids, take care of them as well! They need caring parents, not party animal piece of crap ones.
Quit throwing parties with your hispanic music blasting all hours of the freaking night. I respect you and don't blare my country music! Keep it up and I will take the speakers outside and blast the most annoying music I can find. Yes, I have done this before and I got my point across very well.
Move the ghetto, trashy cars!!!! Especially the one on my property line. It isn't mine, therefore I don't care to see it every time I open my garage.
You own your house, we live in a nice neighborhood, show some class and clean it up! Hell, you have a couch sitting on your front porch. Can we say appalling and repulsive! I like a clean look and would appreciate if you would quit making me look so bad....

Those are just of the few things I think.....

Warning Labels

For some reason I looked at the tag attached to the cord of my hairdryer today as I was putting it in the cabinet where it belongs. This is the moment it really hit me on the stupidity people contain and how much money is wasted on warning labels. Is it really necessary to attach something stating not to use a hair dryer while you are in the shower? I mean, really? What idiot got into the shower to use it the because of their lack of better judgement sued a company because they are retarded and ended up being electrocuted. I mean where does common sense come into play? Do you realize that for every warning label their is on a product, some moron did that exact action in order to get it placed there then tried to sue the company? What has our world come to? What could possibly possess someone to act in a so many ways for warning labels to even be placed on products? So, while I was pondering over all of this, I decided to think about warning labels.... and of course I have added some on here. Feel free to add any that you may think of.... This will make you stop and realize what people have come to....

Arm & Hammer Scoopable Cat Litter 
Safe to use around pets.......    No kidding?!?! I would hope it is safe to use since it is CAT LITTER after all.

Sleeping Pills 
Warning: May cause Drowsiness..... So what idiot did it take to figure this one out? Common sense that sleeping pills may just cause drowsiness.

Bic Lighter 
Ignite lighter away from face...... Ummm duh?

On a Jar of Peanut Butter

May contain nuts..... Well where in the hell do you think peanut butter comes from? 

On A Cup of Coffee

Caution! Contents are hot! ..... Well, no kidding, I didn't ask for a frappuccino 

On a Lawn Mower

Do not place hands or feet under the mower when engine is running..... Okay, so seriously, what genius did this one? Even my kids know better than to pull an act like this!

On a Disposable Razor

Do not use this product during an earthquake..... No more really needs to be said....

On a Stroller

Remove child before folding.... Really people? I mean come on! 

Pepper Spray

Never aim spray at your own eyes..... Ok, now I am seriously wondering what woman actually did this that led to the warning label. 

Road Sign

Caution May Be Water on Road When Raining.... You don't say

Child's Superman Costume

Wearing this garment does not enable you to fly.... What parent actually allowed their child to do this? Does common sense and good parenting ever ring a bell???

I have so many more and may just come back to this post to update it with them.... I know I am not the only one that stops, shakes my head, and really wonders what in the world people are thinking to make manufactures have to actually go out of their way to add these labels! Come on people, use that thing called common sense!

Happy Saturday!

Perfectly Imperfect

As you all know I have another blog I keep up with in order to update our family and friends on our day to day life since we cannot be near them to share it all. I have been debating and toying with the idea of starting a separate blog....one that I can speak freely on and one that deals with the most random to the most meaningful things that we take on in our lives. As you can now see, it won me over. This blog will have some of the things that touch my heart, that may be heartbreaking, that put a smile on my face, that I find comforting, right down to the things that just irritate me and frustrate me. All kinds of emotions will be found on here. The title to this blog, Perfectly Imperfect Southern Girl, speaks the truth on who I am.... who a lot of us are. I will never claim to be perfect at anything, yet somewhere in the mix of it all, I love who I have become and am content with being perfectly imperfect. I have an amazing life with four people I could not live without. My husband and my kids are everything to me and love and accept me for who I am, just as I do with them. I will never allow myself to be anything except me.

I hope you all enjoy something other than the talk of my everyday life.... As much as I love it, I love to talk and express myself as well. There is no telling where this blog may lead.....