Liz Edgar

Thanksgiving Meme

2009-11-23T21:43:00.000-08:00

1. What are you most thankful for?
I am thankful for medical insurance.

2. Where are you spending Thanksgiving?
We will be spending Thanksgiving at my sister's here in San Diego.

3. What's your favorite Thanksgiving food?
My favorite Thanksgiving food was my Grandma's Sweet Potatoes.

4. What is your favorite Thanksgiving dessert?
Pumpkin Pie

5. Is Thanksgiving religious for you?
Thanksgiving is not religious for me. It is more of a spiritual time when our family gets together and we appreciate our time together.

6. Do you eat more on Thanksgiving Day or the day after?
I eat more after.

7. What time do you eat Thanksgiving dinner?
We usually eat in the early evening.

8. What's your favorite Thanksgiving story?
My favoirte memories of Thanksgiving are the times my family would spend Thanksgiving with our extended family in Utah around a great big table.

9. Will you shop on Black Friday?
Nope.

10. What do you hope for next Thanksgiving?
I sure hope we aren't struggling as much financially. I hope my oldest son has gotten on a better track and is a part of our lives. I hope my younger son is attending school regularly and doesn't have any more injuries due to football. I hope my daughter's and my relationship keeps growing stronger. I hope my honey is happy and healthy, too.

~Autumn Etsy Special~

2009-11-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

LizEdgar.Etsy.com

Fun and Casual Jewelry

*~*~*~*~*Autumn Special*~*~*~*~*

Purchase two or more items and shipping is FREE!!!

(Either contact me before making your purchase and I will remove the shipping fees, or I will refund the shipping fees after your purchase.)

Meme

2009-08-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

Patti ~ http://oceankisses-gratitude.blogspot.com/ tagged me with this little meme.

Here are the rules:
1. Collect the book you have most handy.
2. Turn to page 161.
3. Find the 5th complete sentence.
4. Cite the sentence on your blog.
5. Pass it on to other blog friends.

Here’s Patti's: "Yeah." He toed the concrete. (From Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich)

Here's mine: "A lavender haze was settling over the hillside, and the air seemed unusually sharp, causing Alex to shiver in her wool suit, sheer stockings, and low-heeled pumps."
(from Manhunt by Janet Evanovich)

I have chosen:
Janet http://janscraftynest.blogspot.com/
Robin http://creations-anew.blogspot.com/
Ruth http://rhradcliffedesigns.blogspot.com/

SDEC Featured Artist Treasury

2009-07-18T00:55:00.000-07:00

San Diego's East County July featured artist

ME!

I am SDEC's Featured Seller for July

2009-07-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you littlepinkplum! I had fun with this. Come on over and make yourself at home.

http://sdec-etsy.blogspot.com/

Swell

2009-05-13T03:35:00.000-07:00

My heart swells with love just thinking about this little guy.

SDEC Etsy Team Super Blog Giveaway

2009-05-05T08:19:00.000-07:00

Welcome one and all!!!

The San Diego East County Etsy Team is having our first GIANT Blog Giveaway.

18 of our shops are offering prizes

Everyone is welcome !!!

For the list of rules and shops head on over to our blog!

Contest runs from May 5 to May 19th.

Winners will be announced May 23rd.

Good luck and have fun visiting!!!

Happy Dancing

2009-04-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

Jan's Crafty Nest had a Blog Giveaway and I was won of the winners!!!
Janet personally delivered the prize today. We are members of two of the same Etsy teams. She is a real sweetheart. I also got to meet her son. Very curious fellow. :-) He reminded me of my oldest son. The prize items included a bunny ACEO, Wildflower Tags that are plantable, bunny confetti, wooden earrings, bunny Scrabble tile pendants with a chain and a woodburned butterfly pendant on a ribbon necklace. Janet made the bunny Scrabble tile pendants. The other items were either purchased by Janet or donated to her.

And a

Pink and White Flower Pocket Mirror by Little Pink Plum

These are the coolest!

I am already wearing the blue bunny scrabble pendant necklace. I showed it off to my friends at work. Many compliments and "Wows!" and "How did she do that? It looks so perfect." I love Scrabble, too. Double the fun!

Thank you, Jan's Crafty Nest!!!

Please be sure to check out her shop at http://littlepinkplum.etsy.com/

Lovin' the Blues

2009-04-26T09:18:00.001-07:00

Lovin' the Blues
I was feeling really blue last week. Then I got to thinking how grateful I am to be able to have the blues. It's like appreciating the sunny days more because we have occasional cloudy, overcast days. Taking the good with the bad, the happy with the sad. Life is good.

Simple Pleasures in Life

2009-04-18T18:14:00.001-07:00

Watching a precious baby napping

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

My daughter and my grandson

My Grandson

2009-04-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

Aden Nicholi De La Torre

Aden was born November 21, 2008. I went to the hospital with my son. My son's girlfriend took me to see Aden in the NICU. So sweet and precious. He looks so much like my son did when he was a baby. They are both cheeky fellows.

My son Anthony at 2-1/2 months and his son Aden at 2 months

My son got his first tatoo yesterday. It is of a cross with Aden's name encircling it. Above the cross is Aden's birthdate. Wow!

Silly just like me!

Dandelions

2009-03-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

In April the Military Brats Etsy Street Team is having a Dandelion Challenge. The dandelion is the official symbol of the military brat. I am a military brat. My dad served in the Navy. We were transferred to San Diego when I was a toddler. I am one of the few brats who didn't have to move all the time because of a parent being stationed in different parts of the United States and world.

I made a bracelet for my challenge entry. I chose the yellow beads to symbolize the dandelion before it changes to the seedlings. I chose the millefiori beads to represent the the lands that dandelions can grow in. The crystals represent the dandelion when the seedlings are ready to fly away and plant their new roots. I just learned that the white puffy part of the dandelion is actually called a "wishie" or a spherical "clock". The English origin of dandelion comes from the French translation dente de lion which means "lion's tooth". (Wikipedia)

Lovely Pinks and Purples

2009-03-29T11:59:00.000-07:00

Love my Brats

Spring Is Sprung

2009-03-24T09:42:00.001-07:00

I am so happy Spring has arrived. For some of my friends their early Spring consists of rain, snow and ice. Brrr. Hope this helps you put a litte SPRING in your day.

Trees of Life

2009-03-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

I was pondering.... So I thought I would

sit under a tree. What wonderful trees I found.

Blessed Sunday

2009-03-22T21:19:00.001-07:00

I had quite an eventful day. I went to church with my sister and nephew this morning. It has been a long time since I have been to church. A friend of ours daughter was being baptized today. She cried the whole time until she was handed to someone in the congregation. She's a doll. Have you ever felt like what you are hearing is meant for you to hear. The sermon was just that today. The light of God. The pastor said if you have seen the sun, you have seen God. I love to sit in the sunlight and have it radiate throughout my house.

This evening I joined the Jewelry on Etsy Team's Spring Fling. There Fling went on for three days. I caught it this afternoon and came back this evening. I "met" some really wonderful people. Some of them are downright silly. It was good to laugh. And to see all the pretties in their shops. I didn't win any of their contests, but I did find many new favorites and ran across some who are already favorites.

What a pleasant way to spend the day...add a little rain and a nap. Wonderful!

Just Peachy

2009-03-18T20:38:00.001-07:00

Natural and Sweet

San Diego East County March Birthdays

2009-03-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

March BRAT Birthdays

2009-03-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday!!!

I would like to include everyone of our members in each month's birthday treasuries. If your profile doesn't list your birthdate, please let me know if you would like to be included and send me your birthdate.

Rose, Rose RED

2009-03-11T07:47:00.001-07:00

I am really getting into the treasuries on Etsy. I was inspired by elephantdreams Butterfly Garden photograph taken in Phuket, Thailand. (My sister was out to sea when the tsunami hit Phuket. The tour she was on was extended to provide medical assistance.) I am fascinated with the black and white butterflies. The hibiscus is so inviting to the butterflies. Very beautiful. I love the contrast in colors. Passion is the word that comes to mind when I look at this collection.

Feeling a Mite Lucky

2009-03-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

I had a great time putting this treasury together. It has a myriad of artists. Some are from the Miltary Brat Team. This is the first treasury I have done that the comment section was full. Very flattering.

Spring is in the Air

2009-03-01T12:20:00.000-08:00

Thank you, LocoBead!!!

Treasure of Treasuries

2009-03-01T11:57:00.000-08:00

I moved the treasuries to the blog section so they could be clicked on and enlarged for better viewing.

Gracefully Amazing

2009-02-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

I saw this and thought what a wonderful painting. The colors are so rich and deep. The brightness of the sun just beaming. So beautiful. I thought of the colors Monet would use is his paintings. The purple and white reminded me most of his work. Then I read the description the artist had listed. This is a real picture of a real tree. It hadn't been doctored in any way. She took it while driving through New Mexico. To see a sight like this I would drive out of my way.

I wanted to share the natural beauty this artist was able to catch. I was certain it was an oil painting. It is just so beautiful.

Be sure to visit her shop. She is quite the abstract artist. teamzvonik

Things are looking UP!!!

2009-02-16T21:53:00.000-08:00

Today is my 40th birthday. It has been a good day. In fact it has been a great weekend as well. My husband got a job on Saturday. Super Valentine's news. Sunday my sister, her boyfriend and son took my family and me out to dinner to Claim Jumper. The company was swell. Dinner was a bit tasteless, but dessert was yummy. Loved the candle. Today, I had my hair highlighted. A gift from my sister. The woman who does my hair thought I was in my 30's. She is a sweetheart. Life is good!

"Inside out"

2009-02-09T22:19:00.000-08:00

The first time I saw this picture it grabbed me. A fellow military brat is the photographer of this amazing photo. She took it outside of Ipoh, Malaysia. She is quite the capturer of visual art. elephantdreams is her website.

Like the title states I am feeling inside out. More so I am feeling like I am on the inside looking out. My husband is still unemployed. I am working part time. We are not meeting our expenses. He was offered a job last week at $25,000 less than what he was making before. He could take the job, but we would be almost squeaking by. Of course, we would be making too much for any financial assistance like free and reduced meals for our two younger kids in school.

I asked him tonight if it was time to start letting others see how upset I am over this. I do have a smile to share even though I am scared inside. There are times I feel like just crying. I haven't yet. I am surprised I am able to eat or want to. Usually when I am stressed I don't eat. I had a hard time with anorexia when I was a teenager and it has popped up a few times since.

When the unemployment check comes in do we pay the car payments or the rent first? Without a car how can the kids get to school or us to and from work? Without a roof over our heads where do we sleep? We have alerted the apartmant manager to our situation. She says "okay." "Okay", we won't be evicted because we can't make rent? "Okay", everyone else is going through this too, so don't worry? It doesn't feel "okay". It is downright scary.

My girlfriend whose baby I was taking care of was laid off two weeks ago. She was shocked. Me too. She said at least her husband was still employed. That is what I used to think in my situation. Her husband was laid off last week. My husband has never had any difficutly finding work. I am amazed at how well he is keeping his head above water. I feel like telling my oldest who is considering getting out of the service to stay in because the jobs he thinks he will find will be filled by people like his mom and dad. It could come to my husband and I working fast food. I had a dream that I was back working at Jack In The Box some twenty years later. That was my first job. I will be 40 next week. Will that be my next job?

Brat Pack Feature Treasury

2009-02-07T10:27:00.000-08:00

Brat Pack Feature Treasury

I Have Been Featured...

2009-01-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

I am BRAT of the week on the Etsy Military Brat Team forum. Way cool!

http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6015569

To top that off, a sweetheart of a BRAT has featured me on her blog. Love ya, Terryann!

http://justsoterryann.blogspot.com/

I was also featured on our Military Brats of Etsy blog:

http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com/

Thank you. I am going through some rough times and this has been such a boost. Hugs 2 all!

Okay, God

2009-01-27T12:39:00.001-08:00

Well, crap. My girlfriend was laid off today. I will no longer be taking care of her infant son. She was more upset for me since my husband is still umemployed. Heavy sigh.... Okay, so God closes one door and then opens another. Wonder what he has planned for us. I think I will keep an eye on the windows, too.

Angel Purity by lyonscreations

Truthfulness

2009-01-25T17:17:00.000-08:00

Why is it so hard for my oldest to tell the truth? He lies to me repeatedly. He has gone UA a second time. This time he was away from base six days. His girlfriend told me he had returned to base. He tells me he has permission to leave. Doesn't. Didn't. Never did. I have received calls from a warrant officer and his school instructor informing me of his disappearance.

His girlfriend had a baby in November of '08. I asked her who the father was. She told me the name of another fellow. My son was present when I asked. Mind you I don't know this young lady very well. Last week I received a text from her phone, while he was with her, saying the other fellow was tested and he is not the father. I received an email from her a couple days later, after he had gone back to base, saying she wants to have the other fellow tested to rule him out. The other possible father is my son. My son tells me today on the phone that they were pretty sure in the beginning that he was the father. Why did he wait until today to tell me this? Why not months ago? I went with my son to the hospital the day after the baby was born. I went into the NICU with his girlfriend to see her son. I have even held the little guy.

He tells me he has been in contact with his biological father whom he met two years ago for the first time. Says that his father has offered to help out if they need any assistance. This man was never there for his own son. Would be nice to think that he will be there for his possible grandson. My son and his father are both full of malarky. They tell the greatest stories and believe them. It is very frustrating.

So here I sit not knowing if I am this child's grandmother. I would love to be a part of his life now if I am. My son has proposed to his girlfriend. That is great and all, except he can't seem to keep his butt on the base. When he left Camp Pendleton the first time his pay was stopped. How is this suppose to benifit a wife and child? Now he owes the Marine Corps money for being UA.

My tummy is in knots. My heart strings feel like they are loose and just dangling in the wind waiting for his next set of stories. My husband tells me I talk to my son like I would with a friend. I thought about this. He is right. I am afraid. Afraid I will lose contact with my son. Gee, what is worse, having him lie to me constantly or not hearing from him at all? Ugh!!!

oh HAPPY day

2009-01-19T18:03:00.000-08:00

A treasury of cheery items from the Etsy teams I am a part of. I first joined the San Diego East County Team and then joined the Military Brat Team. I love Valentine's Day and wanted to share the love.

I chose the title from a card I purchased from a member of the San Diego East County Team. I totally love her work. So creative.

Thought for the Day

2009-01-09T20:07:00.000-08:00

"Take a moment and draw a circle around the following personal characteristics that you possess: confidence, poise, imagination, initiative, tolerance, humility, love, cheerfulness, faith enthusiasm, courage, honesty, serenity. I hope you circled them all because all are within each of us. It is simply up to us to bring them out."
— J. Wooden

My friend emailed me this quote. I wanted to share it.

I have been having a rough time. Holidays are usually really, really hard for me. My mind was elsewhere this season with concern over my oldest son's choice to leave Marine base without permission. Last night he turned himself in. He may either face time in the brig, their jail, or be discharged. I am just relieved he owned up and turned himself in.

My husband has been jobless since the 29th of December. He has been looking and hopefully will have a position next week. He works in the automotive repair and tire industry. It came as a shock to us.

My husband's aunt says, "Chin up, boobies out." Makes me laugh.

Happy Giving Thanks

2008-11-26T17:59:00.000-08:00

I have not been feeling very happy lately. Worrying about money doesn't help. Having a sweet, little guy smile at me just because does. Having to take my son in to meet with the high school drop out prevention specialist doesn't; having him call me when school is out to say he is staying after class to catch up does. Having a daughter wanting outside of our realm doesn't; having a daughter make me a card saying she loves me does. Hearing that a friend's marriage is losing its strength doesn't; knowing that she is strong does. Knowing a neighbor has hospice doesn't; knowing that they are there to help ease her pain does. Having a husband give his all at work doesn't; seeing the twinkle in his eye when he comes home does. Having family members passed on and holidays different doesn't; learning to appreciate having the family we do have and friends does. Finding my pants fit tighter doesn't; knowing I have food to eat does.

I am thankful. Thankful my husband and I take time out to meet up and share the happenings of our day. Thankful my oldest is not in Iraq. Thankful my middle son is happier at school. Thankful my daughter is maturing. Thankful my kitties like to sleep at the foot of our bed. Thankful my sister and nephew will be home Sunday. Thankful baby Aden is getting better and will be leaving NICU sooner than expected.

I am happy. I have hit some pot holes along the way. Thank goodness I know to climb out instead of dig deeper.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Jolly Rancher

2008-11-10T12:05:00.001-08:00

This is the prize I won from Jewelry on Etsy Team Holiday Sale Treasure Hunt. I received this yummy bracelet from MonkeyBuns.
This is such a vibrantly colored bracelet with a really strong silver magnetic clasp. Really cool!

Super Giveaways from EtsyMom Team

2008-11-03T21:27:00.000-08:00

EtsyMom is having this Super Giveway for the entire month of November. I just visited the current shop with a giveaway. Boodybabies. When I clicked on her shop this diaper tote/mini handbag totally caught my eye.

Amy Butler is the artist of this fabric pattern. The print is entitled August Fields. This bag is not only beautiful, but practical.

I tend my friend's little guy during the week. I would love to carry around his necessities in this adorable bag. It would make a great tote when it is not carrying baby items.

The prize for this blog giveaway are these two cute Minky dot burpcloths. They are adorable. Love the polka dots and dots for sensory development. Adorable.

I would love to win these.

"A friend loves at all times."

2008-11-01T11:48:00.000-07:00

Angelasheartwork is having a Blog Giveaway!!!

Beautiful photos and Christ-inspired poetry and verses.

One of my favorite listings of hers is Proverbs 17 Verse 17. The photograph is of her two female kitties. They had been through a life changing experience and the photo shows them comforting each other. This reminds me of my best friend and me. (Love you Lori.)

Be sure to check out her shop on Etsy and her blog!
Angelasheartwork (shop)

Angela's Heartwork (blog)

Best wishes Angela on your pregnancy and little boy on the way!!!

Sunday I went on a Treasure Hunt

2008-10-28T21:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday I was checking my email, Etsy shop and team forums I belong to. I am a member of the Military Brats Team and San Diego East County Team. One of our Bratty members is also a member of JET. JET stands for Jewelry on Etsy Team. She posted Sunday on our Brat forum that JET was having a Holiday Sale Treasure Hunt and all were welcome. The person heading the hunt was jeweledblossoms. Her True Friendship Bracelets caught my eye.

I love a challenge so I looked into it. The hunt was to start Sunday at 12 pm EST time and end Monday, at 12 pm EST. I live in CA and had read the post at 10:30 am PAC time. The rules of the hunt stated that the first five people to convo the list of 25 shops the Santa mouse visited to jeweledblossoms would win either a gift certificate or a piece of jewelry from one of the participating shops . The remaining people who convo'd their lists would be put in a drawing and 20 entrants would be chosen to receive a gift certificate or piece of jewelry. So, I had a chance.

I was impressed with all the different styles of jewelry I saw. One of my favorites was a pair of pumpkin earrings. Unfortunately I don't remember which shop had them listed. Good excuse to revisit all the the shops who participated. MoonMystic is the Etsian who posted the invite. She has an awesome array of stone pendants and earrings in her shops. Her second Etsy shop is SuperiorStones.etsy.com. Please be sure to check them out.

Back to the hunt... I really got into looking for the Santa mouse. Many times I ended up wandering around the different shops looking at their many artistic creations. I wanted to have a chance at winning, so I had to keep reminding myself to get back on task. "Work, work, work." Not really, it was great fun. (Have you figured out I am competitive?)

I put my list together and convo'd it to the the last listed shop, jeweledblossoms. Shortly thereafter I posted on their forum that I had found the mouse. I waited a bit and saw a new post saying they had a fourth winner. Then I received a convo that I was that winner. Too cool! What a great way to spend a Sunday morning.

Thanks MoonMystic!!!

7 Facts About Me

2008-10-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

7 Facts About Me

Okay, this is still a new thing for me. I am not a major blogger. I have been tagged by Deanna at Random Wanderings. I am supposed to list 7 facts about myself. Hmm, here goes:

I am a big roller coaster chicken. I don’t even like riding Merry-Go-Rounds anymore. Makes me so dizzy. So, I am not much fun at amusement parks.

I love Disney/Pixar movies. My favorite lately is Cars. I just love the message of slowing down and just enjoying life. (Relating to my first fact: I love the “kiddie” rides at Disneyland.) The last time we went to Disneyland I asked my husband to take my picture with every character we came across.

I had a really hard time with panic attacks and anxiety for years. I take medication to help with it. It was so bad I couldn’t attend baseball games at Jack Murphy Stadium or go out to dinner.

I love working with kids. I wanted to be a teacher when I was a kid. I taught preschool for about 8 years. I have an Associates Degree in Child Development. For the last three years I was a noon duty at my daughter’s elementary school. This school year I am taking care of my best friend’s baby. He is four months old.

I had cervical cancer in 2005. I had a hysterectomy in the summer of 2006. I am grateful to be cancer free, yet I was depressed I could never have kids again. Mind you I have three great kids. Just knowing that having another baby was out of the question was a real loss for me.

I had my belly button pierced. It was pierced for about 1-1/2 years until I had surgery for the cancer. I took my ring out for the first surgery and tried to put it back in two days later and the hole had already closed. Bummer.

I love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I eat them for lunch almost everyday. I ate that for lunch my entire senior year. I still eat them almost daily.

So, now you know a little more about me. It is your turn to share, if you are willing. I am tagging:

Trying my hand at this

Roses and Rocks

Through His Eyes - A Photographer's Expose'

rhradcliffedesigns

Anhoki's Place

Swimming in Fountains

Thanks, Deanna, this was fun.

Hope life is treating you all well and you are doing the same for others.

Graduation is near!

2008-09-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

"Some people spend an entire lifetime wonderng if they made a difference. The MARINES don't have that problem." President Ronald Reagan - 1985

(Thanks, Sue)

A Marine in the making

2008-08-30T11:42:00.001-07:00

My oldest son's pinning is set for September 11th. He is due to graduate September 19th. I am feeling like such a mom. He has made plans to visit friends up north on his leave. He has chosen infantry. He is looking forward to school because he will be learning how to kill. I just cried when I read that. I am proud and scared at the same time. He has had a chemical infection in both eyes. He has strains in his legs from overdoing it. I am grateful he hasn't given up or gotten in trouble. Such a growth experience for both of us.

Bratty Tuesday Treasury

2008-08-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

Here is a treasury I put together for the Military Brats Team. I chose items that were serene and easy on the eyes. One team member said she felt the temperature drop 10 degrees when she saw this treasury. It is mighty hot in Texas.

I really enjoy putting treasuries together.

If you would like to visit this treasury, go to: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=21607

It is viewable until Thursday at 2:45 pm.

Etsy Military Brats Street Team 1st Birthday

2008-08-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today, August 1st, is our Etsy Military Brats Street Team's 1st birthday. To celebrate this special day some of us have swapped birthday gifts. I received a nifty silver twisted ring with a purple Swarovski crystal in the middle of a flower. Way cool! My buddy chose a brown and turquoise bracelet from my shop. Says it is her favorite bracelet to wear. We have a new blog and flickr site to share our thoughts, pictures and artisticness. (Probably not a word, but I like it.)
http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com/

http://www.flickr.com/groups/militarybratsofetsy/

We also have a forum thread, on Etsy, that everyone is welcome to visit. This weekend many of us are offering specials and discounts in our shops. Please be sure to visit:
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5740178

Being a member of Etsy's Military Brats Street Team is very fulfilling. The friendships, kindness and unity are wonderful.

God bless.

Our Military Brat Treasury

2008-07-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

These are items from some of our members in a treasury to go with our Storque article Etsy is doing on teams.

ME!

2008-07-29T22:43:00.001-07:00

I was in a particularly fun mood this day. I had just been out to lunch with one of my best friends. We have been friends since 9th grade. Wow! My middle child is going into 9th grade this year. Wild!

New Blog for Brats

2008-07-29T14:48:00.000-07:00

This is my dad in his Naval uniform, my mom and me wearing my dad's cover. This was taken in August of '69. Saying bye to daddy. We were at the airport.

I belong to Etsy's Military Brat Street Team. We have a new blog site. All of us have/had a parent or parents who are either serving or have served in the Military. Be sure to check us out!

http://etsymilitarybratteam.blogspot.com/2008/07/what-is-brat.html

Feeling better

2008-07-24T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have survived my pity party. Hooray! What a downer. Guess I had to get it off my mind and chest.

We went to my younger son's end of summer school barbecue this evening. We watched a really cool video of the kids throughout the six weeks of school. A lot of great team building activities. It was really neat seeing my son and his friends in the video. I also introduced myself to his girlfriend and ex-girlfriend's mothers. The ex-girlfriend's mom had just met my son today. That is kind of weird. This was middle school boyfriend/girlfriend. A lot of texting and instant messaging. Oh yeah, and many hours of phone time. The awkward thing about this is the ex-girlfriend introduced my son to her friend and now they are "together." Okay. The ex's mom says her daughter is the resident match maker.

I have been keeping busy with "tagging" other members on the Etsy Military Brats Street Team. If you look through my shop in the descriptions you will find links to the other member's shops. It has been fun looking through their shops and mine for items that compliment each other.

http://www.lizedgar.etsy.com/

I am feeling better. Deep breath and smiling.

Changes

2008-07-24T14:05:00.000-07:00

I have the boo-hoos today. My cousins are all getting together in our family state of Utah. My mom, grandma and aunt live there as well. As kids we spent a lot of time together. As adults we have gone our separate ways. One cousin and his family live in Nebraska. The other three live in Utah, but don't keep in touch with each other very often. It is actually sad. Their mom and dad have passed away. They do have their in-laws. We just seemed to be much closer as kids.

My sister, her son, my kids and myself went up to visit a year ago January. Only one of our cousin's made time to see us. We don't talk as often as we could, but we do keep in touch. She is a sweetheart. As for her brothers I just don't understand them. I am disappointed that they are so distant. Almost seems selfish. Although I do know that the loss of a parent can change a person. And to lose both, I can only imagine.

Today is a barbecue at my youngest son's school. It is the ending of summer school. Yesterday they went on a field trip to Misison Bay. He got to try out surfing. He had a blast. He really loved the wet suit. He came home and told me he wants to get a board and suit. Today is the first day of summer vacation that I have really slept in. I have been moving around and putting together furniture in my daughter's room. I think it all caught up with me last night. I slept for more than ten hours. I feel muddle headed. Too much sleep.

Got a letter from my oldest Tuesday. Seemed like forever since the last one. (I think it was a week ago.) His girlfriend is not pregnant. Just mother nature taking her time in bringing her monthly visitor. My son said he was disappointed. I was a bit, but more relieved. He is 19. He has at least 20 more years to have children. He is just starting his career in the Marines. He sounded humble in this letter. Even my husband noticed that when he read the letter. They are off to Pendleton for the next four weeks and then return to MCRD. He is set to graduate in September the day after my husband's and my anniversary.

I have a swirl of emotions going on inside me. I miss my mom. I am missing my cousins, or at least the cousins I remember from childhood. I am missing my grandma. She will be 95 in October. The kids and I have some free time before football and school start, but I am afraid to drive up there to visit. I don't know my way around Salt Lake. The last few times I have gone up there I have been with my sister. She knows her way around. She is planning to go up there the end of August before her son starts school in September. That won't work for us. We will be back to school and work. My husband is going to change jobs in the next few weeks. He will be going from being a district manager of eight automotive stores to managing one. At least it is down the street from us. Saves of fuel and wear and tear of the vehicle.

I am scared. Scared of losing my grandma. Scared of my mom's health. Scared of my husband changing jobs. Scared the new job is not all it is cracked up to be. Scared the owner of the new business is going to screw my husband over. Scared of being scared. Scared that I have put weight back on and won't be able to lose it again.

Sounds like I need to step out of the hole I am digging and fill it up. This has been a rocky summer for me. We went into it with the hopes and dreams of buying a house and my oldest leaving for boot camp eventually. We ended up not qualifying for the down payment the same day we received the final okay from the seller's lenders. Then a week later the company we had our mortgage loan preapproved with went under. It was a blessing in disguise. And hard to let go of the dream of having our own home. My son was scheduled to leave for boot camp this September unless an opening came up. He ended up leaving the day after his 19th birthday, June 23rd. His letters say he is doing well.

Time for a gratitude list. I am grateful for:

my health - cancer free for two years

we have a place to live

an empty sink - no dirty dishes piling up

clean cat box

healthy kids

healthy kitties

fans

water

clean clothes

toothbrush

gas in the gas tank

flowers

friends

babies

my husband

my kids

laundry soap

computers

electricity

being able to pay utility bills on time

money in the bank

comfortable shoes

my teddy bear from my sister

I wish I could cry. That is really hard for me. I miss my dad. Or at least the dad I wish I had. This is not the most happy of entries, but it is how I am feeling today. Things I am going to work through.

(the picture came from an artist on Etsy)

A better day

2008-07-10T23:37:00.000-07:00

After talking it out with my sister and husband, there is a possibility that my son is telling the truth. Could I really be a grandma? Could he really be a father? Oh my! Only time will tell.

Today my daughter, her friend, and I went out to lunch with my best friend and her little guy. He is already a month old. Man, time flies. He is still so adorable. I am very happy for her. We went to Mimi's for lunch. The food was good. The waitress was rude. She rushed us through the entire meal. I wasn't even half way through my meal and she brought the check. I moved the check to get it out of the way and she swooped over to collect. I spoke to the manager and she brought out the general manager. I was offered a gift certificate. I said I didn't think I would be coming back. It was just really rude.

My sister is on cloud nine. She and her boyfriend are back together. He is lucky I like him. JK. He has asked her several times if I am mad with him. Yes. Mad that he her hurt her feelings. I figured he had cold feet. It was not as though they were going to get married, just the commitment scared him. He has taken care of his ailing father for years. His father just passed and will be dearly missed. I wish the two of them well. They are a great couple.

Life is good. Who knows I might actually be a grandma. (smile)

Taking a walk does wonders

2008-07-10T00:32:00.001-07:00

I have been in a slump the last two days, and a few more, over the house business and then my oldest son. My youngest son has football practice every weekday. Some days he has it twice a day. He has asked me a few times to come and walk the track. I figured he wanted me to walk the track while he hung out with friends. So, I wasn't too intested. Yesterday he asked again. I told him no and gave him the excuse that I was hungry and my shorts had gotten wet at the pool. I had been watching my daughter and her friends at the complex pool and had my feet in the water. I changed my clothes, put on tennies and surprised him. He surprised me, too. He and a friend he knows from elementary school were already walking the track and joined me. It was cool. I think we went around four times. I felt so much better afterwards.

I had high hopes that my oldest would miraculously change after being at boot camp for just two weeks. Nope. I am working on accepting that is who he is. It upsets me that he doesn't tell the truth with a lot of things. A lot of them are really serious like his girlfriend being pregnant. I just don't understand why he does that. Perhaps I never will.

My husband's aunt used to tell me, "Chin up, boobies out." Made me laugh then and makes me smile now. Reminds me I want to give her a call.

Taking a walk does do wonders. It is even more fun when your fourteen year old walks with you even though the junior varsity and varsity girls' cheer team is running/walking the track at the same time. Priceless.

I tell ya...

2008-07-08T19:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we signed cancellation documents for the purchase of the house. Originally we were preapproved for a mortgage loan and a down payment loan in April. In May our broker told us there were some changes with the requirements. Okay. Nothing more said. Last Monday we received written approval from the seller's second lender. Happy dance, right? Nope. Our broker called and told us the approval news and then that we no longer qualify for the down payment loan. The requirements had changed the week prior. (Thanks for the heads up.) So, there we stood with dual approval and no down payment. I asked her didn't we qualify. Yes, she said. I asked how we qualified for the mortgage loan without having the down payment. I am guessing I am just naive. From the way she explained it to me is sounds like she had written up the loan with the assumption that we had the down payment money from a relative. Nope.

I was doing our banking last week and saw a pending charge for the appraisal. She told me she had post-poned the appraisal. I didn't understand. Today I emailed her and she said the fee is paid upfront. My blood was beginning to boil. Pardon my french, but what the hell? I asked to have it refunded. She replied and said she took care of it.

I think when we go down this road later we will find a different broker. Ugh. Maybe that is how all of this works, but I don't like the not knowing. Thank goodness our realtor was more helpful.

On the upside, sort of, I got two letters from my oldest son who is at his second week of boot camp. Funny thing is I had just mailed off my first letter to him right before checking the mail. He says he is doing well. He has put on weight which is good. He was really lean when he left. He says he misses us. That was nice to hear. Then he drops the bomb. Mind you he is great with the shock and awe factor. He is not so great with telling the truth about a lot of things. I have told him he ought to become a writer since he is so imaginative. Back to the news he had. He asked me to please bring his girlfriend (on and off) with us to his graduation in Sept. Says that I am going to be a grandma in 9 months. What?! Says he is happy and hopes I am too.

I called her mom. She said that was news to her. Her daughter still lives at home. She hasn't been acting any different. Says she will ask her when she gets home. A little bit ago her daughter/the girlfriend calls me. No, she is not pregnant. Says this is the third time my son has done this to her mom. Idk. So frustrating. Had a scare a few years back. Turned out yes the girl was, but it wasn't my son's. Grrr. I am so hoping the military is an opportunity for him to realize the truth is the way to go. Just frustrating.

Grrr, it's been a "Monday"

2008-06-30T21:35:00.000-07:00

We have received approval in writing from both of the seller's lenders. Good to go in that area. The inspection has been scheduled for later this week. My husband called me today to tell me that our broker called and due to new requirements we don't qualify for the down payment loan. We are first time home buyers. It is kind of like trying to get a job that needs experience, but not being able to have the experience because you have never had a job. Catch 22. We haven't given up. Our broker is checking into some avenues for us. It is just so frustrating. For those of you who know me personally, I am usually pretty easy going. My poor nerves these last two weeks are worn out. Patience, patience. Ugh.

I keep going back to something someone sent me: When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better.

And: To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.

I am working hard to remember these.

Changes

2008-06-29T23:28:00.000-07:00

A week ago my oldest son left for boot camp. I watched a show on the Military Channel about Making Marines. It was good to see what goes on. We are hoping to receive a letter from him soon. I am really looking forward to seeing him in uniform.

We are close to purchasing our first house. We are waiting on written approval from their second lender and then it is off to the appraisal and inspection. We are hoping to be moving in the first part of August.

My youngest son is in summer school at the high school. He really likes it. He is also going out for football. He is a freshman. The first week was really hard on him physically. There was one day he thought he couldn't make it any further. They were doing "gassers." Running back and forth, back and forth about 100 yards each way. Thank goodness he is getting used to it. My favorite part is that he is known as "Sunshine" after the kid in 'Remember the Titans.' He has long, shaggy strawberry blond hair. I told him he will be known around school, for a good reason, once it starts. He has made friends with some of the upper classmen on the football team.

My daughter is hanging out this summer. We had her best friend stay with us for five days. They had fun. I am so grateful there was only a few minutes of grumpiness. My best friend had her baby early. My daughter and I went to see them the day after they went home. My daughter asked to hold the baby. I was so impressed with how careful she was. When we went to the baby shower two weeks later and my daughter asked again to hold the him. So sweet.

Having my oldest son leave, my youngest son pushing himself to his limits and playing the waiting game on this house has played havoc on me this last week. I am not working since it is summer. I sometimes miss the scheduled day. Although I am totally enjoying getting to sleep in or just hang out in my pj's.

Life is good!

Creativity

2008-05-19T22:46:00.000-07:00

I made a bracelet I am very excited about. A friend of mine asked me to make it for her friend. Green and pink she said. You know with the sparkly beads. I mulled it around in my head. Four days later I have created it. I really like it. It is very feminine. Unfortunately, she is out of town for a week. I will have to wait until next week to show it to her. Her computer is down so emailing her a pic is out of the question. I really think she will like it.

And, if all goes well, we will be moving into "our" house not too far from hers. I haven't told her that yet. Pretty exciting.

(It will be a year this week that we moved my son out of our house. Hard feelings. I wish he were more trustworthy. I am sad. I miss him. I don't miss his behaviors.)

Time for a little ice cream and off to bed. It was a hot one today. Yuck. Thank goodness for the breeze. It helped to cool the sweat. Gross, but true. LOL.

Houses

2008-05-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

We have been house hunting for a few weeks now. Boy, we have seen some real dumps. We saw one that listed that it had a pool. When we got to the backyard there was just a big yard. No pool. The owners had left a note with rocks holding it stating that they had filled the pool and buried the shed. Weird. Who knows what else is buried in there. Creepy. A few days after the house came on the market it was removed. That either means it is pending sale or it foreclosed. This house was already bank owned. Hard to believe someone bought it. The rest of the house was in total disarray. Just wild.

We put an offer on a house today that we ALL like. We are so hoping. It is foreclosed. It is a nice size with room to put a pool in and still have some backyard.

House hunting is mentally and physically tiring. The roller coaster ride. (I don't like roller coasters.) My husband's co-worker and buddy is also looking for a house. Nothing like a little competition among friends.

Off to create some jewelry...

Playing with the big kids...

2008-04-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

Last night I went out with my husband to a pool hall to meet some folks from work. It was one of the guys' birthday. I was glad they had ESPN on. Gave me something to do. The Padres won. Go Padres!!! I don't drink alcohol. So, I had a bottle of water. (And brought in some 31 Flavors ice cream.) Some of the folks were already plastered. It is weird watching how foolish drunk people behave. I just don't get it. I can be silly without drinking. Most of them left by 10 pm. They had to work today. The only ones left were my husband, his buddy and myself. We were at a pool table near the center. I could see around the whole place. There were your typical females with little tops on and their butts and boobs hanging out. There were two fellows with really nicely ironed shirts and nice shoes. I think they iron their shirts together. They were having a great time and their hair looked great. There were the lonely looking fellows so drunk, or tired, or both, just sitting there looking lifeless. There were a few senior folks. They were having fun too. I hit one ball in when I played. Pretty rusty. But, it was a nice smooth shot.

There was a punching thing in the corner. Looked like it measured your psi after you hit it. My husband and his buddy went over to it. I stayed at the pool table. I had watched other guys hit it earlier. I just couldn't watch when my husband hit it. I guess seeing the wind up and exertion was too much. I know he is struggling with work. The owner insisted he fire a fellow whom my husband felt did nothing to warrant being fired. Nor did anybody else in the entire shop who witnessed the situation. Ethics. The owner's ethics seem pretty immoral based on the holy dollar. Just not right. My husband got into fights when he was a teenager. I have the hardest time watching UFC and even wrestling, even though I know they are just acting. I don't do violence.

So, here I sit wondering when my husband is leaving his present job to go to work for a guy who left the same business last year and has started up his own business. Does he want my husband to work for him just to spite the owner? Does he really want my husband to work with him because of his skills? It is a new business with big promises. I am leary. They guy lied to the owner about his reasons for leaving. Said he was going to retire. BS. My husband used to claim that this guy had major mood swings. Now he tells me the guy is bipolar. Untreated? Scary. I know my husband is frustrated where he is work-wise, but is it worth changing jobs and getting stuck in a situation just for the new boss to seek revenge with the old? No, if you ask me.

Sometimes you find out you are the bigger person when "playing with the big kids." I would rather go looking for ladybugs.

Yesterday...

2008-04-09T18:19:00.000-07:00

All I can say is it was the end of a ferocious migraine. Thank goodness it is over.

Ladybugs

2008-04-07T20:44:00.000-07:00

Spring is here. I am seeing ladybugs everywhere I go. One landed on my shirt the other day. Today the kids at school were more interested in looking for ladybugs than playing their daily game of soccer. It was neat seeing them so into the world around them. They were so excited when a ladybug would stay on their arm or hand for a few seconds.

Last week, as a thank you, I made a ladybug bracelet for a friend. She is also my "Number One Customer." She wore it today. It is so cute, if I say so myself. I am going to make more bracelets like hers and name it after her Etsy name. Lvladybugs is her name. I am going to entitle the bracelets "Luvs Ladybugs."

If I were ever to get a tatoo, it would be of a ladybug sitting on my right shoulder.

On a personal note, I have been waiting to hear from my oldest son as to when he is due to leave for Army boot camp. No word yet. It is hard to let go and be patient.

Off to play with the ladybugs!!!

Hi

2008-04-06T23:01:00.000-07:00

I am new to blogging. Guess you already figured that out. lol. I am hoping to share my experiences, strengths and hopes here. I am a married mother of three children and two cats. I am a happy crafter with Etsy.com. Etsy is an online community where handmade items can be bought and sold. I was in my first treasury today thanks to someone really sweet I just met yesterday. It is very flattering and exciting to be posted in an Etsy treasury. Making jewelry and selling it has become a big commitment. Thank goodness I enjoy it. I am a new member of Military Brats at Etsy and San Diego's East County Team.

I work at my daughter's school as a noon duty. I supervise the students during their lunch time and recess following lunch. I work with first graders through sixth graders. Our school is the last in our district to have a sixth grade. Our school is a magnet school. Students who attend while in the third through sixth grade are either in a GATE Identified class (Gifted and Talented), a FAME class (performing arts) or in a STAR class (Science, Technology and Research). My younger son and my daughter are GATE Identified. My older son is in the process of joining the Army.

I am hoping to keep up with this blog. We shall see.

Hasta luego,
Liz

Liz Edgar

Thanksgiving Meme

*~*Autumn Etsy Special*~*

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ME!

New Blog for Brats

Feeling better

Changes

A better day

Taking a walk does wonders

I tell ya...

Grrr, it's been a "Monday"

Changes

Creativity

Houses

Playing with the big kids...

Yesterday...

Ladybugs

Hi

~Autumn Etsy Special~