11:06 AM

10 Weeks

Your pregnancy: 10 weeks
How your baby's growing:Though he's barely the size of a kumquat — a little over an inch or so long, crown to bottom — and weighs less than a quarter of an ounce, your baby has now completed the most critical portion of his development. This is the beginning of the so-called fetal period, a time when the tissues and organs in his body rapidly grow and mature.

He's swallowing fluid and kicking up a storm. Vital organs — including his kidneys, intestines, brain, and liver (now making red blood cells in place of the disappearing yolk sac) — are in place and starting to function, though they'll continue to develop throughout your pregnancy.

If you could take a peek inside your womb, you'd spot minute details, like tiny nails forming on fingers and toes (no more webbing) and peach-fuzz hair beginning to grow on tender skin.

In other developments: Your baby's limbs can bend now. His hands are flexed at the wrist and meet over his heart, and his feet may be long enough to meet in front of his body. The outline of his spine is clearly visible through translucent skin, and spinal nerves are beginning to stretch out from his spinal cord. Your baby's forehead temporarily bulges with his developing brain and sits very high on his head, which measures half the length of his body. From crown to rump, he's about 1 1/4 inches long. In the coming weeks, your baby will again double in size — to nearly 3 inches.

How your life's changing:
At your next prenatal visit, you may be able to hear your baby's rapid heartbeat with the help of a Doppler stethoscope, a handheld ultrasound device that your practitioner places on your belly. Many women say that the beating of their baby's tiny heart sounded like the thunder of galloping horses and hearing it for the first time was very moving.

Before you got pregnant, your uterus was the size of a small pear. By this week, it's as big as a grapefruit. You may or may not be ready for maternity wear now. Even if you're not there yet, your regular clothes are probably feeling uncomfortably tight and your blossoming breasts are straining the seams of your bra. The thickening in your midsection is most likely due to slight weight gain and bloating. If you're between regular and maternity clothes, pants and skirts with forgiving elastic waistbands (or low-rise waistlines that sit below your belly) will provide some much-needed comfort. -- My pants are definately getting a little snug... on the verge of uncomfort!

Depending on your level of fitness, you can most likely participate in a wide range of activities during pregnancy. Swimming and walking are excellent choices for the whole nine months. Exercise promotes muscle tone, strength, and endurance — three qualities that can help you carry the weight you gain during pregnancy, prepare you for the physical stress of labor, and make it easier to get back into shape after your baby is born. (Unfortunately, there's no evidence that regular exercise shortens labor.) -- I walk everyday to ensure that I don't gain a crap ton of weight!!! I'm worried I won't be able to take it off after the baby is born!

10:07 PM

What I'm really going though...

So you can read what I've been going through according to the 'books' but here it really is...

1) Major lack of sleep
--- I cannot get comfortable enough with this tiny little person inside of me to get sleep at night. Root Cause --- My Back Pains...

2) Major back pain
--- I've always had back pain during my menstrual cycle so I'm somewhat used to it. However I was able to take the wonderful Midol... That was always my go to drug... Now --- Tylenol --- It does nothing for the pain!

3) Tenderness
--- I'm experience slight tenderness of the breast but nothing that is unbearable.

4) Very tired
--- Despite not being able to sleep at night I'm always tired. This is why it seems to be difficult to accomplish much of anything!

5) Sickness
--- I've only had a couple times where I've felt like I was going to vomit so I'm extremely lucky in that category!

More information and of course... there will be progression pictures to come... I'm just getting a very small baby bump that has started to form. I have only gained one pound so I can definitely tell that my insides are simply adjusting to make room!

Stay Tuned!

9:37 AM

9 Weeks

Your pregnancy: 9 weeks


How Your Baby's Growing:
Your new resident is nearly an inch long — about the size of a grape — and weighs just a fraction of an ounce. She's starting to look more and more human. Her essential body parts are accounted for, though they'll go through plenty of fine-tuning in the coming months. Other changes abound: Your baby's heart finishes dividing into four chambers, and the valves start to form — as do her tiny teeth. The embryonic "tail" is completely gone. Your baby's organs, muscles, and nerves are kicking into gear. The external sex organs are there but won't be distinguishable as male or female for another few weeks. Her eyes are fully formed, but her eyelids are fused shut and won't open until 27 weeks. She has tiny earlobes, and her mouth, nose, and nostrils are more distinct. The placenta is developed enough now to take over most of the critical job of producing hormones. Now that your baby's basic physiology is in place, she's poised for rapid weight gain.

How your life's changing:
You still may not look pregnant even if your waist is thickening a bit. You probably feel pregnant, though. Not only are morning sickness and other physical symptoms out in full force for most women, but you may feel like an emotional pinball as well.

Mood swings are common now — it's perfectly normal to feel alternately elated and terrified about becoming a parent. Try to cut yourself some slack. Most women find that moodiness flares up at around six to ten weeks, eases up in the second trimester, and then reappears as pregnancy winds to a close.

9:26 AM

8 Weeks

Since I am actually 8 weeks (2 months already!) along here is an up to date update on what the baby and my body are doing:
Your pregnancy: 8 weeks
How your baby's growing: New this week: Webbed fingers and toes are poking out from your baby's hands and feet, his eyelids practically cover his eyes, breathing tubes extend from his throat to the branches of his developing lungs, and his "tail" is just about gone. In his brain, nerve cells are branching out to connect with one another, forming primitive neural pathways. You may be daydreaming about your baby as one sex or the other, but the external genitals still haven't developed enough to reveal whether you're having a boy or a girl. Either way, your baby — about the size of a kidney bean — is constantly moving and shifting, though you still can't feel it.

How your life's changing:
You may notice that your bra is getting more snug. Soon you'll likely need a larger size with better support. Rising levels of hormones cause breast growth and other tissue changes, all in preparation for lactation. Your breasts may continue to grow throughout pregnancy. Don't be surprised if you go up a cup size or two, especially if it's your first baby. Keep this in mind, and allow for room to grow when investing in a new bra. I haven't noticed a change in my bust size---I really don't need them to get any larger!!!

Feeling fatigued? Hormonal changes — in particular, a dramatic rise in progesterone — may be contributing to your sluggishness. Nausea and vomiting can certainly cost you energy, too. And you may be having trouble getting a good night's sleep at this point, especially if you're uncomfortable or find you need to get up to pee. I am generally tired around 2:00 PM and really wish for a nap at that time. I find it more and more difficult to wake up to my alarm clock because I am waking up every night to go to the bathroom. Although I have not actually gotten sick to the point of vomiting I do feel nauseous some of the time.

8:53 AM

7 Weeks

Well I had an appointment on Friday and it was determined that I'm actually 8 weeks along --- already 2 months... that went my fast... I guess it helps when you don't know!


Here is what my body / baby was doing last week... Week 7:


Your pregnancy: 7 weeks

How your baby's growing:
The big news this week: Hands and feet are emerging from developing arms and legs — although they look more like paddles at this point than the tiny, pudgy extremities you're daydreaming about holding and tickling. Technically, your baby is still considered an embryo and has something of a small tail, which is an extension of her tailbone. The tail will disappear within a few weeks, but that's the only thing getting smaller. Your baby has doubled in size since last week and now measures half an inch long, about the size of a blueberry.


If you could see inside your womb, you'd spot eyelid folds partially covering her peepers, which already have some color, as well as the tip of her nose and tiny veins beneath parchment-thin skin. Both hemispheres of your baby's brain are growing, and her liver is churning out red blood cells until her bone marrow forms and takes over this role. She also has an appendix and a pancreas, which will eventually produce the hormone insulin to aid in digestion. A loop in your baby's growing intestines is bulging into her umbilical cord, which now has distinct blood vessels to carry oxygen and nutrients to and from her tiny body.


How your life's changing:

Your uterus has doubled in size in the past five weeks, and eating may feel like a chore — or worse — thanks to morning sickness, which by now may be in full swing. (If you're feeling fine, don't worry — you're lucky!) -- As of now I've had a few days / nights / and mornings where I've experienced morning sickness. It's a horrible feeling and I feel as though I should not eat anything. Other times (when not feeling sick) I feel like I cannot get enought to eat!

You may need to pee more than usual, too, thanks to your increasing blood volume and the extra fluid being processed through your kidneys. (By now, you already have about 10 percent more blood than you did before you were pregnant. And by the end of your pregnancy, you'll have 40 to 45 percent more blood running through your veins to meet the demands of your full-term baby.) As your uterus grows, pressure on your bladder will send you to the bathroom as well. I'm lucky enought to have to get up once a night to go to the bathroom... I guess I better get used to interrupted sleeo --- it's only going to get worse!


About half of the women who feel nauseated during the first trimester will find complete relief by about 14 weeks. For most of the rest, it'll take another month or so for the queasiness to ease up. It's unlikely, though, that the need to pee more than usual will ease up. In fact, research shows that both the frequency and volume of urine tends to increase over the course of pregnancy.

8:35 PM

TOTAL EXCITEMENT!

Joy is all around the world since yesterday morning at 7:00...

I'm so excited, yet extremely scared - Am I really prepared mentally, emotionally, physically, financially?

We're Having A Baby!!!!!

I am estimated, currently without a doctor's witness, to be about 6 weeks along.

Here is what is happening at 6 weeks inside my small stature body:


Your pregnancy: 6 weeks
How your baby's growing: This week's major developments: The nose, mouth, and ears that you'll spend so much time kissing in eight months are beginning to take shape. If you could see into your uterus, you'd find an oversize head and dark spots where your baby's eyes and nostrils are starting to form. His emerging ears are marked by small depressions on the sides of the head, and his arms and legs by protruding buds. His heart is beating about 100 to 160 times a minute — almost twice as fast as yours — and blood is beginning to course through his body. His intestines are developing, and the bud of tissue that will give rise to his lungs has appeared. His pituitary gland is forming, as are the rest of his brain, muscles, and bones. Right now, your baby is a quarter of an inch long, about the size of a lentil bean.

See what's going on in your uterus this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

How your life's changing: You may find yourself developing a bit of a split personality — feeling moody one day and joyful the next. Unsettling as this is (especially if you pride yourself on being in control), what you're going through is normal. Ricocheting emotions are caused partly by fluctuating hormones. But hormones aside, your life is about to change in a big way — and who wouldn't feel emotional about that?

Spotting (spots of blood on your underpants or toilet tissue after urinating) or bleeding is relatively common in early pregnancy, affecting up to a quarter of pregnant women. It may occur in a normal pregnancy, but sometimes it can be the first sign of miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. If you have any spotting or bleeding, call your provider.
I have tested positive + for.....

10:22 PM

Why Try?

A thought consumes me from time to time that makes me wonder... Why Try? This thought comes to mine for many reasons but all too many times it happens to pertain to the relationship I share with my husband. I understand that marriage is difficult however when you put so much damn effort into a single aspect of it... when does it change? When does he realize that there needs to be an end to the habits that may be for our children? When does he feel the need to respect my way of thinking? When does he decide that maybe I am in the right?

Again.. Why do I try so often without my outcome?

4:38 PM

The Inevitable Was Very Near Lastnight...

Being married to a military man I'm very aware what the concept of 'active duty' is. It's a scary phrase when it contains a few words... Iraq, Afghanistan, war... the such.

As I know that it is inevitable for my husband to get called up for deployment within the next 13 years of his military career (in for retirement) however it is still something hard to fully grasp.

As TJ and I were sitting at a couple friend's house last night, hanging out, working on their basement, playing with their baby girl... TJ received a phone call.

TJ came upstairs stating, "Well I have so good yet bad news."

Just a little side note... My mom read me every one's horoscopes the other night when she was up at my house... TJ's - "An unplanned event will bring your family closer this month."

The phone call that TJ received was from a detachment of his old unit (TJ's able to do his old MOS & his current MOS since he's qualified for both). The man on the other end of the line stated that they have a E5 slot opened and they are offering it to him. So this sounds all good and dandy right... NOT SO MUCH!

This unit is deploying to Afghanistan in August. If TJ takes this promotion he would have to report ASAP... MONDAY (Tomorrow) morning. For three months he would be training in a different city, home on weekend, then in August he reports to Afghanistan. I believe this is a 12 month deployment.

After discussion of what the pros and cons would be... TJ has decided to turn down this much anticipated promotion. There's a time when this promotion does not include war and that is what he will wait for.

Again... God Bless Our Troops and all they do.

9:20 AM

KISSES ~~~ MUAH ~~~

WHAT EACH KISS MEANS...

Kiss on the stomach; be ready

Kiss on the Forehead; expresing a lov 4 him/her

Kiss on the Ear; seducing!,haha!

Kiss on the Cheek; cute

Kiss on the Hand; I adore you

Kiss on the Neck;We belong together

Kiss on the Shoulder;I want you

Kiss on the Lips;I love you

WHAT THE GESTURES MEAN...

Holding Hands; We definitely like each other

Slap on the Butt; That's mine

Holding on tight; I don't want to let go

Looking into each other's Eyes; liking each other

Playing with Hair; Tell me you love me

Arms around the Waist; I like you too much to let go

Laughing while Kissing;I am completely comfortable with you

ADVICE...

Don't ask for a kiss, take one.

If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you're definitely in Love.

9:19 PM

Easter 2009

TJ & I had Easter at our house this year! My parents, sister & her husband & kids, TJ's grandparents & uncle came to celebrate Easter in Sioux Falls...
Here is just a glimpse of our first holiday hosted at our house!



TJ & I Easter 2009 (Our First Easter Married! :) )


Trinity finding her first few eggs!

Brockton at his first Easter Egg hunt!

Having an Easter Egg Hunt in our yard... (mom, Jayme, Brockton, Shawn, Starr)


Starr & Trinity seeing what the Easter Bunny left them eaely Easter morning!


---

Our own Hannah Montana (Trinity)

12:36 PM

God Bless The USA

So today while sitting at work I read an article on the local news website that stated the 147th field artillery unit is getting activated again to go to war. They will be stationed in Kuwait, not Iraq. This is that companies 3rd deployment. It hits hard home because I'm married to a soldier of the United States Army National Guard. He's been deployed once. I was not with him at that point in time but I feel that it is inevitable that he gets deployed again. South Dakota is known to have some one the most talented soldiers and it is an honor to be married to a US Soldier.

I know deployment is likely in this state of time with the way we have gotten involved with Iraq. Unfortunately I'm not so sure I would be ready for it. I know I have to be.

There is one thing I ask of you...

Please keep the US soldiers in your prayers. Even if they are not fighting war they are still putting their lives on the line each and every day knowing that at any time... they could be called up for duty.

May God Bless Our US Soldiers.


10:07 AM

The Meaning Of Easter

"The meaning of Easter is Jesus Christ's victory over death. His resurrection symbolizes the eternal life that is granted to all who believe in Him. The meaning of Easter also symbolizes the complete verification of all that Jesus preached and taught during His three-year ministry.

If He had not risen from the dead, if He had merely died and not been resurrected, He would have been considered just another teacher or Rabbi. However, His resurrection changed all that and gave final and irrefutable proof that He was really the Son of God and that He had conquered death once and for all.

Today, the meaning of Easter, for million of Christians, is that of honoring and recognizing Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead, and His glorious promises of eternal life for all who believe in Him."

As time has gone by it has been apparent that everyone has struggles in their lives. TJ & I have had some struggles; however we have come through (there may be more to come but we are ready to face them!) My family has also been going through some troubles due to an economic struggle.

As my father stated, "Let's all just get through the next week. Easter is like a new beginning." This is true :)

Resurrection:
1) The act of rising from the dead or returning to life.
2) The state of one who has returned to life.
3) The act of bringing back to practice, notice, or use; revival.

As we go through this time of celebration let us all recognize the true meaning of life and how thankful we should all be to be able to breathe air, eat healthy foods, and love as we do. Easter is truly a time for celebrating our Christ Jesus and that is what I will do. I will be surrounded by love from family and our Christ Jesus.

Unfortunately after moving to Sioux Falls I not been going to church. It has been difficult to start going to a new church after being so used to 'my' church. I have made a vow to start going to church again with a friend from work. I know this will make me feel like a better person and I know I will be doing the right thing.

God Bless,
Jenna

8:47 PM

Venting Time


Okay; It's time to VeNt...


So today at work my boss goes to me, "Facebook... Did you put something on there about work?"


Me, "What stressed?"


Him, "Well to others the perception was that you aren't happy with what you are doing and you shouldn't be doing it anymore." (something like that anyways)


Okay so you pry figure out by now that I'm red in the face, heart about to beat out of my chest, and I'm about to say something that may get me fired if I don't hold my mouth shut.


Him, "from now on keep it all to personal e-mails; you know that information is public information."


OH THAT PISSED ME OFF EVEN MORE!


Public information??? Haha... no that's personal information and DOES NOT need to be discussed with my f'n BOSS!!! --- what if it was a cry for help because of something my boss did --- now that person made it that much worse by getting him involved.


I'm so upset... Isn't "What's on your mind?" an area to vent 'what's on your mind?'


What upsets me the most is that this person didn't have the decency to come to me and ask me about my job.


My last words to my boss... "That's pitiful, really pitiful that whoever said that didn't come to me, and whatever." Then I walked out.


I guess lesson here... NEVER trust people who are supposed to be 'friends'. True friends would be concerned enough to come straight to YOU with a concern rather than someone else.


9:03 PM

MARY KAY COSMETICS

Not sure if I've informed of this but I am a Mary Kay Cosmetic Consultant!

Whether or not you are a cosmetics wearer... Mary Kay offers multiple items that help create a more confident feeling for every woman of every kind. www.marykay.com

Want more details? contact me!!!

tjcuka24@Hotmail.com

8:46 PM

In the Midst of a Deep Sleep

Dreams: Dreams are sequence images, sounds and feelings experienced while sleeping, strongly associated with rapid eye movement sleep. The contents and biological purposes of dreams are not fully understood, though they have been a topic of speculation and interest throughout recorded history. The scientific study of dreams is known as oneirology.

Nightmare: A nightmare is a dream which causes a strong unpleasant emotional response from the sleeper, typically fear or horror, being in situations of extreme danger, or the sensations of pain, bad events, falling, drowning or death. Such dreams can be related to physical causes such as a high fever, turned faced down on a pillow during sleep (most often in the case of drowning nightmares), or psychological ones such as psychological trauma or stress in the sleeper's life, or can have no apparent cause. If a person has experienced a psychologically traumatic situation in life—for example, a person who may have been captured and tortured—the experience may come back to haunt them in their nightmares. Sleepers may waken in a state of distress and be unable to get back to sleep for some time. Eating before bed, which triggers an increase in the body's metabolism and brain activity, is another potential stimulus for nightmares.
Occasional nightmares are commonplace, but recurrent nightmares can interfere with
sleep and may cause people to seek medical help. A recently proposed treatment consists of imagery rehearsal. This approach appears to reduce the effects of nightmares and other symptoms in acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

I've always been a firm believer that dreams can come true. Not just the dreams of being rich or living in luxury but actual dreams... nightly dreams.

Not until recently has it been that I would rather not my dreams come true. I have had nightmares in the middle of the night with no explanation. I can not remember them but I remember waking up in a deep sweat with a rush or fear consuming my body.

This is strange as I have always enjoyed recalling my dreams. However the past few days I have not tried as I have been frightening of a simple memory.

I cannot determine the cause of the nightly awakings however they have led to recent sleepless nights.

8:28 PM

Military Ball

So a friend asked me to post some pictures... so that's what I'm doing!!!



Military Ball... AH! Really is there a point to it... other than TJ getting a few awards it's just a waste of money... Oh well!



There wasn't even an opportunity to get all fancied up because the military doesn't have a 'true' dress uniform yet... blues or greens... hm... just figure it out!



TJ & I Right before the Ball:





Me at the Hotel getting ready:


8:19 PM

Saturday night out..





TJ & I... most recent picture... from Saturday night!


WE FINALLY WENT OUT AND HAD A FUN NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It seems like it's been FOREVER since TJ and I did something different so we went to TJ's cousin's house. It was fun cause it was completely different than we normally do! Just a few pics from the night... believe it or not... we had a great night and only had a couple drinks! :)

8:28 AM

A Turning Point in Our Life Together...

It became a reality that our economy was struggling when I had a 12% loss on my 401-K 4th quarter of 2008. Then it was an instant reminder when TJ's hours were cut at work. Regardless of how much of a struggle one goes through it simply becomes a back bone for what is to come. Granted this struggle brought arguments between two that never thought anything other than love could happen. This struggle brought depression, stress, and multiple nervous breakdowns within the last 6 months or so.

I was beginning to wonder if all of these "mental games" were partaking in the fast moving life of marriage and buying our first home. I'm assuming that is part of it however things have started to turn for the better! :)

So we have had great news day after day for the last week.

#1) I went over my performance review at work last month however had not received my raise information until last week. Because of how the economy has been and how horribly it has struck the financial world I had not expected anything other than to keep my job, regardless if a pay cut had to be done. On the contrary I ended up receiving a pay raise of 4.54% in addition to 5 extra vacation days. What more could I ask for? I was elated!

#2) TJ and I received a phone call from the mortgage lender stating that we were qualified for a 1% interest rate reduction loan! This is HUGE as we bought our house when the rates were high (currently at a 6% dropping to a 5%). Not only is this awesome because it lowers our monthly payments but the terms and conditions stay the same as they were before and we will remain in a Veterans Affairs Government Loan --- SAVING MORE MONEY!!! In figuring out our monthly payments we are expecting to save $85 a month on our mortgage payment --- this is awesome!

#3) About a month ago when TJ's hours at work were really getting cut his friend hooked him up with a Landscape Design Company owner to see if he had any work for him. Guess What... He does! Not only does he have work for him but he has Full Time - Year Round Employment. This means no more season work like he was doing before. Since TJ has three college degrees in Landscape Design, Turf Management, and Horticulture he will be getting paid much more than expected, he will be getting a company vehicle, as well as getting full time hours.

All in all TJ and I went through our struggle and I was doing what I could to help 'pull the weight' while he was in a slump. Now the only thing that could make our lives better would be adding in the joy of life, a baby. This has not happened yet but I will keep everyone posted to when it does as we are trying!

With Love,
Jenna Marie

11:17 AM

A Break Through!

As I always say, "It's better to be the bigger person than to stoop down to their level." At last I was finally given the opportunity to do just that!

TJ & I went to his little sister Gina's State Basketball game last night. Unfortunately they did not win so they are playing for 3rd and 4th rather than for 1st ans 2nd. Besides the point I have started to make mends with TJ's family.

We arrived at the gym last night and found our seats then to see TJ's mother, father, sister, and uncle walk in. We then followed them to the cheering section in which they were sitting only for me to think, "I can't even look at her (TJ's sister, Michelle)." And that was just it, I couldn't even look at her after the words she had said about me.

TJ's Dad, Mark, then started talking to me so that helped ease the tension slightly. Mark has always taken an initiative to get to know me and has never gotten involved in the falling out over Christmas.

After we all got settled in and more of a crowd started to show up Michelle went and sat with her friend and TJ's mother started to talk to me. We talked about the game from the day prior and about how the game would go last night. Things went well and I felt like a bigger person by keeping up a conversation with his mother who has always been difficult for me to talk to.

The game then got underway and Gina was "Ding it up" and being just as aggressive as any go getter would play. Unfortunately her aggressive playing got the best of her and she fouled out in the 4th quarter. The Lady Pirates fought their hearts out to win but they were unable to hang on.

After the game TJ and I waited for Gina to get cleaned up so we could let her know that she played well and to keep her head up high. After all there are many teams that would have loved to be there but did not succeed.

Gina came out of the locker room, tears rolling down her face, and accepted our hugs and words of inspiration. She thanked us for driving the 3 hours to watch one of the most important games in her high school career. She was genuinely glad that we were able to show her our support.

Michelle at that point walked away without saying anything so TJ said, "Michelle, not even a hug?" Michelle turned around with an annoyed "if I have to" look and gave TJ a hug. Gina & I happened to be looking at each other at that time and Gina simply rolled her eyes in disgust by the way Michelle was acting.

We lingered around for awhile speaking with the family and as we were getting ready to leave I simply stated, "Bye Michelle. It was nice seeing you again."

I knew I had to be the bigger person and by me stating the first words; I have done so.

By me showing up to Gina's game; I have done so.

By me holding up a conversation with TJ's mom, I have done so.

Now the only one left is TJ's brother's girlfriend, Carisa.

11:09 AM

The problem is... I do care...

A time comes in our lives that we realize that we do not want to settle for what 'just is.' After the Christmas ordeal with TJ's family I decided that I was not going to dwell on something that I did not have control over --- the way people felt about me. Don't get me wrong, I do not have much concern on if people like what I do or what I say. However when it comes to family, I do have a concern when I'm not accepted, especially when I'm not sure of the reason for non-acceptance.

Here's another thing--- I can handle TJ's family not 'liking' ME, however they should not disown their own blood. His sister especially has disowned her own brother. The brother who would do anything for anyone in his family has been disowned, because of me. TJ saw her when he was home for the Military Ball and called her---she ignored his call. Seriously I can't wrap my mind around this!

Last night his sister text TJ and was upset that he didn't tell her "good luck" for making it to State basketball. Well, again, we were not informed so how could we tell her "good luck?"

We seem to be the last to know on everything and it does bother us. Either we are the last to know or simply never find out.

After not being accepted in my ex's family I wanted nothing more than to be accepted into my husband’s family. I kept myself shielded because I knew what it felt like to be just another person and not really a part of them. TJ's family is aware of what I've been through in the past however that makes no sense to them as they all live perfect lives, so they think.

I'm very bitter with everything going on because I feel as though it's my entire fault; however there's never a reasoning given behind it.

I spoke with TJ's cousin who is the same age as Gina, the youngest sister, and Abbi informed me that, "his family has never given you a chance." This just goes to make me wonder how long I've been considered a, "ruin of the family." This whole thing has driven me sick, stressed, to the verge of divorce, and then to the 'I don't care' stage. But the only thing is, I do care, very much.

I'm just ready for this war to be over with. Stop telling me things like, "Welcome to the family," "You are family, you can come to use with anything," "You are a sister now," (All from the wedding) if you truly don't mean it. Do any of you really think I can consider you family when I'm treated the way you treat me? Do any of you really think I want to spend time with people who don't care, appreciate, and love me? You may talk shit because I was "selfish" for not spending time with you all... why should I put myself through self torture when I can be around people who genuinely care, appreciate, and love me?

All I'm asking is for those of you who think I am such a bad person, I'm really not. It's not my fault you've never taken the time to genuinely get to know me.

5:09 PM

This is so me...

So a friend posted a blog that explained her personality by the month in which she was born... June. Well that just so happens to be the month I was born in too.... So I decided to compare it to me. Here goes:

Thinks Far With Vision: Almost too much; I'm always looking into the future to see where I'll be or where I should be.

Easily Influenced by Kindness: Yes, which leads to good or bad.

Polite & Soft Spoken: I always use my manners and I am very soft spoken

Having Lots of Ideas: I wouldn't be where I am in life if I didn't have lots of ideas (work)

Sensitive: Very--- I'm very emotional and words can hurt very badly.

Active Mind: I spend many sleepless nights thinking, wondering, and dreaming--- very active mind.

Hesitating: I try not to second guess myself but have a tendency to do so often.

Tends to Delay: Not me... I hate procrastinating

Choosy and Always Wants the Best: Very choosy & definitely the best for myself, family, and others.

Temperamental: Ha... "you want me to give you a reason to cry?" is what my father would say when I was a child... I definitely have a temper on me.

Funny & Humorous: I wouldn't say I'm funny but TJ laughs with me!

Loves to Joke: I'm not a good joker but I love to laugh!

Good Debating Skills: I wish we had a debate team in high school because I was great at it!

Talkative: Generally yes.

Day Dreamer: Absolutely! Even at work and that sometimes causes problems with getting work done!

Friendly: Yes; everyone deserves a chance (but I've learned not to give second chances!)

Knows how to make friends: Yes but I would rather have few great friends to lean on rather than many okay friends.

Shows Character: Only that of my own.

Easily Hurt: Again, yes... sensitive!

Prone to getting colds: Hm.. no not really.

Loves to dress up: Absolutely!

Takes time to recover when hurt: sometimes too much; sometimes not enough

Brand Conscious: Yes and No --- When money matters no I'll buy good bargains!

Stubborn: Extremely --- I don't like to give in but have worked on that since marriage!

That's me born in the month of June!

9:20 AM

Grandma is dearly missed... but happy times are just around the corner!

I'm so ready for this wintery weather to pass by and bring me the warm sweetness of spring and summer!

Everyone goes through their winter blues and it's time to cheer up and bring on the beautiful aromatic spring blossoms and the soothing sound of waves sneaking up to shore.

Spring was always my grandmother's favorite season --- full of spring cleaning, fresh flowers, sweet breezes, and of course - warmer weather.

With the close ties I always had with my grandmother prior to her passing I would indulge in helping her clean windows, paint, and garden in the spring time. Now that I have a house of my own I can make those memories come a reality again --- only not with my grandmother physically present but spiritually watching over me.

The love of a family member will always go on to help you make it through even your worst times. TJ and I have had a rough past year with many firsts taking place. With the help of the good lord above and my loving grandmother, uncles, and friends watching over us we have been able to survive.

The change of season always brings back great memories I share with my grandmother. This is why I can't wait for spring to get here!

Then comes summer--- oh sweet summer time! Due to TJ leaving in June for 3 weeks our summer gets cut a little short. We will absolutely need to get in plenty of river time, camping time, fishing time, and of course --- boating time!

I can't wait to show off a bronze tan, wear flip flops, squeeze into my swim suit and pry buy a new one due to the few "winter pounds" put on! :)

Rocking out to music and loving warm weather --- those are the days I am looking forward too! We are one step closer to those days with Day Light Savings Time on Sunday!! YEAH! Give me two more months and it'll be here --- 3 more months and our one year anniversary---wow that went fast!

6:27 PM

In the end it's just him and I.

Over Christmas this year TJ's family and us had a "falling out." Needless to say we did not spend the Christmas holidays with his family as we wanted to surround ourselves around people who love, appreciate, and respect us. Why wouldn't you want that during the holidays right?

Apparently that's not how his family see things. We were being immature and disrespectful for not spending time with his family.

After seeing conversation between my sister in law and my brother in law's girlfriend it was apparent that they did not want my company during the holiday season. After receiving many text messages and my eyes swollen with tears it was apparent that no matter how difficult for him, TJ understands the concept of being a husband. He stood by my side every step of the way. Even when I stated, "I'm not going to take you away from your family, please spend time with them, but I'm going to be with my family," he declined. He simply stated that if his family was going to treat me like that they were disrespecting him as well. He did not want to partake in any holiday celebrations with them.

Now I am faced with a dilemma. This weekend is Guard Drill weekend. Generally this is when I would go back to TJ's hometown with him and spend time with his family. There is one simple problem. I am not comfortable in the least stepping foot in his parents house, especially without him there with me. He'll be gone a majority of the time at drill so I'll be with his family who apparently wants nothing to do with me. Not a picture perfect scenario.

Then we have July coming up. This is TJ's grandparents 50th Ann. party and family reunion. I would love to be there for his grandparents as I absolutely adore them. However knowing who else will be there; Michelle, Gina, Carisa; do I really want to put myself in that position for 4 days?

Am I being selfish? Am I over analyzing? Am I being true to TJ but not wanting anything to do with his family?

All of these things cross my mind everyday. This is not easy for me as it's always been so important to be accepted as part of my husband's family. As far as I knew, I was. Then all this came out at Christmas about how horrible of a person I am... all because of a simple gift exchange. The way things had been going TJ and I thought it be best if we drew names for gifts in his family as there are 8 people. The limit was set at $20 or whatever you can afford--- what's the point of a limit if you do whatever you afford? Well we can afford well over $20 and the others may only be able to afford $10 right? Well I said that you have to set a limit at a number or between this and this so you don't end up with one $5 and one $30 gift.

Apparently that meant that I was only going to spend $5. Seriously for any of those that truly know me... I enjoy giving more than receiving. I also tend to spend a little too much money on gifts... it's a weakness of mine.

Since then I've been calls multiple names from his family and no one thought, "hey maybe we need to talk to Jenna instead of making accusations."

The worst part- TJ's parents didn't even bother to get the story from us, rather they simply took the precious little girls' word for it.

Morale of the story, if at any point in time I am comfortable enough to face his family --- Shut Up! I will no longer voice my concern, I will no longer speak my mind, and I will no longer voice my opinion. When I am asked to speak I will. When I am in general conversation I will keep it to 'yes' 'no' responses. I will give respect where respect is due --- all others will need to regain it. I will trust no one other than myself and my husband. I will never feel accepted and will never feel appreciated.

TJ has married now. He is no longer the son that he used to be as he has a family of his own -- Me and Him. Simply because he is not at their every beck and call does not mean that they have to disown him. If he's happy shouldn't they be happy for him?

I can go on and on with this simply because it is a sore spot for me every day. However simply because his mother did not forgive us when we asked for forgiveness it just goes to show me that it's not worth the worries, stress, and constant concern any longer.

Our life will go on as we choose it to. His family may or may not be involved in it.

All that matters is that in the end it's just him and I... and we're happy with that.

9:46 PM

Bachelor 201

I'm so mad at Jason!!! He picked Melissa... then broke up w/ her... and wanted to give Molly another chance... AH!! Seriously?

If you've been heartbroken before how can you really do that to Melissa?

Wow... I'm shocked!

Men... sometimes they are just assholes!

6:52 PM

Bachelor 101

I am a Reality TV Junkie!!! The season finale of the Bachelor - Jason is on tonight! It's a two hour show and I'll be attached to my TV for 2 straight hours! Good thing that "One Tree Hill" is a re-run!

Bachelor Talk ---

Melissa --- She's so amazing & beautiful at that! She is an all in one package :) I think she would make a great step mom to Ty and a great wife for Jason. I mean come on... she did the motherly/wife thing when she went to Jason's house and picked up the dishes and cleaned up their dinner mess... great girl!

Molly --- She's so simple --- and not near enough experienced for Jason's life --- she would have to step into motherhood and she needs to experience 'life.'

Now don't get me wrong- I'll be happy for Jason no matter who he chooses. He deserves love, regardless who it is from. After what Deanna did to Jason - and Jesse for that matter - he deserves happiness.

If Deanna changes his heart into choosing her again (she's making an appearance on the show tonight letting him know she made a mistake by not choosing her) I'll be so upset! She completed dogged on Jesse so who knows what she would do to Jason... afterall she wouldn't just be hurting Jason but Ty as well.

Well I have exactly one minute until it starts... I'll update you on his choice!!!

10:47 PM

Is It Time For a Life?

No... Not for me... For someone! Tonight TJ and I decided to go visit a couple that we are friends with. We always keep in contact with them and usually see them a couple times a month to just 'catch up.' Well lately it's been a little more difficult to 'catch up' because they just had a baby a few months ago. A precious baby girl. So everytime we go to their house it gets me thinking... Is it time to create a life; a living human being?

Parts of me always say yes simply because I want to have a family so bad. Then parts of me say no simply because I still want to experience different things in my life... vacations, finishing our basement, being rich...(haha.. just a dream!). Then I realize... when you have a family those things are not as important. We are ready. Stability of money flow is here, we have a house, we are mentally ready, we are emotionally ready, we are mature enough... yes we are ready.

First step... Get off the birth control. Second step... magic. Simple as that right? Then why do I have a HUGE fear that it will take FOREVER or will NEVER happen? I've always feared that I will not be able to have children, not sure why as it does not run in my family. I guess for now the only thing to do is wait it out and see. I'll keep you updated with any new comings however don't expect anything until at the soonest April!

8:25 PM

Change is Inevetible...

So growing up I was always under the impression that friends are always friends... or at least the best of them right? From time to time I realize that I have not talked to friends from high school in months, and in some cases years. This makes me feel like a bad person, then to realize that they have not made an attempt either. These are simply just friends, but when it comes to those that were the best friends it's hard to makes that realization that maybe people have changed and it isn't like it used to be. People change right? So how can I make myself understand that it is okay to "let go" of your "best friend" when they are no longer truly a best friend? Am I living in the past just trying to make it work? The uncomfortable feeling while around each other, going months without speaking to each other while living in the same city, even the "walking on egg shells" feeling that I sometimes get so I don't do something inappropriate or wrong. That is obviously a sign that the "best friendship" has dwindled down to simply a friendship. We've both moved on with our lives and I hope we can both understand that change is inevitable and unfortunately our lifestyles do not match the others any longer.

Then I come to think... is it because of children and no children? I have to answer with a 'no.' Another best friend has children... 2. We get along better than I have gotten along with anyone in a very long time. I can discuss my marriage problems--- when and if they arise. I can be myself --- burp if I need to... and the such. It's 100% relaxing and absolutely comfortable while spending time together. This is how best friendship should be right?

Maybe from time to time I indulge in the drama of my life to deeply. However when it comes to friends... you have to be very careful who you choose to let know your deepest secrets and who will be there through thick and thin... who contacts you back when you contact them, who realize that a friendship is two sides rather than just one.

Ultimately... There's only room for one 'bestest' friend... someone you can share all of your deepest thoughts with and you can trust, love, and be there for... and everything is returned without a price to pay... this is your significant other.

There is room for one 'bestest' friend, a best friend, and many friends. Those who are many friends many hear my thoughts, my best friend may hear my deep thoughts, but my 'bestest' friend... he will hear my deepest thoughts and desires.

Life goes on and we just have to accept change for what it is...

Again... I'm just me!

7:22 PM

This is me... Jenna Marie

Hello,

I'm Jenna from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I'm a very fun and relatively outgoing person; however my favorite activity consists of watching movies with my husband which has turned me into a little of a home-body. I throughly enjoy reading--- mainly dramatic and romantic books. My life has taken multiple turns and has had many curves in it within the last 6 years --- and I'm only 22. I've gone through more in the last 6 years then some go through in their lifetime. I do not have regrets from the last 6 years as I have learned from everything that has ever happened to me. I'll now take you on a walk through my life!

I was born in Salt Lake City, Utah and moved to my hometown, Geddes, when I was 2. I went to one school my entire K-12... yes one school -- K-6 lower level and 7-12 upper level. I was involved in basically every club and activity possible in school -- except for Basketball and Track. I absolutely LOVED playing volleyball and cheerleading-- those two aspects of highschool are what I miss the most. I graduated at the top of my class and continued on with my education at Northeast Community College in Norfolk, NE for Computer Technology and Networking. At this point in time in my life I was involved with a guy that was in the military who had hurt me time and time again--- not physically but mentally and emotionally---yes I would say mental and emotional abuse. I was engaged to him and then broke it off when I found out he had cheated on me and was married to someone else. Again I don't regret being with him but if I could change the past he would not have been a part of it.

I then decided that I would live my life for myself rather than for him and I switched schools and majors --- and fell in love with the love of my life. I moved to Sioux Falls, SD and attended Southeast Technical Institute for Business Administration and a minor in Computer Technology. After I finished schooling at Southeast I continued to persue my dreams and attended Bellevue University for my Bachelors of Business Administration. I finished my studies in August 2008 and plan to obtain my Masters... at some point... but I'm just "schooled out" for right now.

In May of 2008 I married the man of my dreams, Terry (TJ). I've gone down an adventure being married because even though we lived together prior to marriage... things do change when you get married. We bought a house in July of 2008 and have been enjoying every minute of it... except of course the much higher monthly payment!!!

We are no on the decision of making a baby. We both want a family very badly however we know that we have to make sure our priorities are in check first. We know we are ready so when the time comes... it comes!

Until next time... This is me... Jenna Marie