Reflections of 2008

As I flip 2008 in my mind I try to capture moments or feelings that stand out to me. I recall bringing in 2008 with Kevin and the boys, receiving a combined kiss from all of my men at the stroke of midnight. I also remember thinking that come 2009, Kevin would be far away and I'd be without my love for yet another holiday. As the deployment approached I tried to be strong, tried to keep in perspective the bigger picture. By the time June 10 rolled around, I realized I wasn't so strong after all. I fell apart. This deployment has proved harder for some reason. I think it's because of the experiences we had during the last one. I've tried to keep the same mentality to find strength in my Heavenly Father and my Savior. Some days are better then others. I have however, seen growth in myself in many ways. I've had many learning experiences to draw strength from. It certainly hasn't been easy and some of the lessons have caused great heartache but all are part of the journey and I do understand that.

I've watched my boys grow into these amazing young men. They have the best sense of humor and a sense of responsibility, each at their own level of course. I find myself amazed often as I watch them learn and grow. I have seen what an example of strength they are. They serve in this Army lifestyle with silent strength. They have a sense of pride when it comes to their dad that I don't think even I can relate to. It's been awesome to have this experience with them.

They say distance makes the heart grow fonder. I have to say I agree. With each passing day I miss and love Kevin more and more. The ache in my heart is almost a physical pain, it's hard to explain. I know this separation is part of our trial here on earth and we will endure it. I am grateful for the technology we have so we can remain close. But even better then technology I am so grateful for the spiritual intimacy that Kevin and I share.

I think that 2008 was a year of friendship for me. Gaining new relationships and bidding farewell to others and being okay with it. I had some pretty awesome experiences with friends this year. The awesome I use describes both amazing and overwhelming circumstances. Each one providing me an opportunity for self-reflection and growth. My heart broke for many this year, all who continue to be in my prayers.

I don't know what 2009 will bring, for sure some changes as we try to chart the next step in our Army career. I pray that the new year brings opportunity for our friends and for ourselves. I hope to be able to reflect on my earthly experiences to be a better daughter of God and to build a stronger relationship with my Savior.

Overall, I just want to be a good person, serving others and teaching that to my children.

What I'm most excited for in 2009 is being reunited with my eternal companion. I love you Kevin, happy new year!

It Happened in 2008

Click on the images to make them bigger to see the pics and words.

Please Help Me

Apparently that was written on my forehead without my knowledge. This morning I went to the post office to mail out some boxes to Kevin and a friend of ours. We carry the boxes into the post office and as soon as I set them down on the counter where you wait, a lady says to me in a somewhat snotty tone.."you do KNOW you need to fill out a customs form." I look at her and think to myself, be nice. I smile at her and say, "yes I do know they are in my purse." Then she says oh ok, and goes on to tell me that it will all be over soon. Huh? Yeah, we still have 9 months to go lady, but again I just smile and then turn around. Then I lug my 48 lb box to the counter and the lady says to me, you know you could break these down into 5 flat rate boxes for the same price. Uhm, yeah, but then I'm still spending 50 bucks AND I have to lug in 5 boxes instead of one, oh and the stuff in this box doesn't ALL fit in flat rate boxes but thanks. I must have my amateur Army wife t-shirt on or something.

I get that people want to be helpful, really I do but instead of offering me advice on my boxes, how about you open the door or better yet, lug the 48 lb, 32 lb and 24 lb boxes from me and my kids!!!

rAnDoM pIcS

Does this make me look buff?

Our first piece of furniture Kevin and I ever bought together. It has served us well for almost 13 years. Kind of sad to see it go...

Neil putting together the replacement TV stand.

Finished project...good job Neil!Daniel thought he was being helpful by testing out the box the TV came in, lol

Neil eating Spicy Tuna Roll

Daniel enjoying his Philadelphia Roll

Michael chowing on some kind of Salmon Roll
The guy making the rolls at the restaurant was amazed at how much my kids ate, lol
Sapper resting in Neil's bed...she's so dang cute.

The Duck Pond

Today we went to the duck pond at the local college. It's always so much free fun. The kids have a blast. The ducks weren't so interested in our bread, they must have had plenty to eat over the holidays too, lol.

The kids jumped, climbed, crawled, ran all over the area. I captured them on film. Enjoy!

Press On

"Often those who struggle with adversity ask the question “Why did this happen to me?” They spend sleepless nights wondering why they feel so lonely, sick, discouraged, oppressed, or brokenhearted.

The question “Why me?” can be a difficult one to answer and often leads to frustration and despair. There is a better question to ask ourselves. That question is “What could I learn from this experience?”

The way we answer that question may determine the quality of our lives not only on this earth but also in the eternities to come. Though our trials are diverse, there is one thing the Lord expects of us no matter our difficulties and sorrows: He expects us to press on."

Sometimes it's hard to live by these words, especially when we feel that people have done us wrong. That is how I feel today and I won't go into to details but my heart was hurt today...deeply. I can't quite wrap my brain around the situation at hand all I can do is find charity in my heart and put it into action.

I'm going to try hard to apply the following words that I read today to press on.

Most of us feel frustrated or impatient at times. But when we express those feelings by becoming angry with someone, we offend the Spirit and invite bitterness into our hearts. As we strive to come unto Christ and to perfect ourselves, we should ask ourselves not “What is fair?” but, humbly, “What would Jesus have me do?”

The Savior endured great persecution. We read that “they scourge him, and he suffereth it; and they smite him, and he suffereth it. Yea, they spit upon him, and he suffereth it, because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering towards the children of men.” (1 Ne. 19:9.) His response to those who crucified him was simply “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34.)

Although most of us don’t have to deal with persecution, we are often “provoked” by small things. Rudeness, nagging, disobedience, waiting, disagreements, disappointment, and unfulfilled expectations can irritate us, particularly when we are tired, sick, or in a hurry.

At such times, our first impulse may be to react with irritation, anger, or contention. But we can choose to react instead with charity and not be “easily provoked.” (Moro. 7:45.) We can turn the other cheek (see Matt. 5:38–39) and respond with patience and kindness.

How do we develop a spirit of charity that keeps us from being provoked? One approach is to concentrate on ways to control our anger or impatience. Taking a deep breath and stopping to think for a moment before speaking sometimes helps. Getting in the habit of asking ourselves what Jesus would have us do in a given situation can also help defuse anger and frustration.

For those who have a persistent problem with impatience and anger, fervent prayer can be a powerful help in overcoming the tendency to be provoked. Repentance, too, has a healing effect on a wounded spirit, and returning good for evil drains the heart of anger.

By learning to avoid contention and to control our anger, we stop evil from being passed along and become more like the Savior, whose sacrifice of self made eternal life possible for all who come unto him and emulate his example.

Camel Crossing

And people complain about stopping for pedestrians?? This video that Kevin sent me cracked me up...seems that camels don't listen any better than our children do.
I decided that even though it's after Christmas, I'd like to ask for one of those sirens for our Durango, it might not make camels move but it made cars and people move in other videos Kevin sent. Maybe it would help here on the crazy streets of Texas...maybe, lol

Christmas 2008

We hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas. Our kids had a great Christmas. The boys got most of what they wanted and a few extra treats. I admit that for me, Christmas was really overshadowed by Kevin not being here. I missed him a lot yesterday. We were blessed to be able to chat for a long time both on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. I got to watch him open his gifts and we waited for him to come back on to watch the kids but the kids were extremely anxious, lol. The did get to show him on webcam all their stuff though and that was fun.

This is the book we read on Christmas Eve. It was a very cute book about a Soldier being overseas at Christmas. The boys loved it and so did I!Daniel handing out the presents

Michael and he's Axe, lol..he was looking surprised because he knew he was getting it, lolNeil and his tech deck (small skateboards.Daniel and his new scooter.The boys looking happy with their gifts.Michael cheesing for the camera

The boys and their stockings.Kev's stocking..we miss you my love!

Today, I received a holiday gift on my doorstep...

Kevin received this in his email yesterday from one of his many supporters from Soldier's Angels. I thought it was nicely written and wanted to share it with you all. Thanks Shelle for all that you do to support our troops and especially my husband. Just a note, it's a small world, Shelle lives in Grand Forks, ND which is where Kevin is originally from!!!

Today, I received a holiday gift on my doorstep.

I picked it up and looked at it carefully.

The shiny paper glistened in the sun.

The note on the package said,

"Go ahead, open me. I am more than a pretty package. Look inside."


As I looked at the bow, I noticed it was a bit tattered, as if it had been through some rough times.

The edges were a bit scuffed up and frayed, yet still the bow was neatly tied.

The paper was many different bits and pieces taped together.. like a quilt.

It gave me a lot of comfort knowing that someone took the time and energy to put these peices all together to cover the next layer, which was a cardboard box.

It looked like it had been around the block a few times, recycled... but still sturdy.

Carefully opening the box, I peeked in.

I could not believe how much was packed into that strong small box.

It was like an explosion of color with fireworks bursting out of the box.

It was full of music and sunshine and rainbows.

It had walks in the park and education and snowboarding tucked inside.

It was full of hugs and kisses and laughter. It had cartoons and books and travel.

It was festive and creative and full of emotion.

It had stars and stripes...

It was full of freedom.

Freedom.

Sweet Freedom.

The note was signed...

forever true,

an American service member
(past-present and future)


MY RESPONSE:


Dear Heroes-

Tonight as I bow my head in prayer and nod off to sleep under that blanket of freedom while living safely in my sturdy shelter...
I will always appreicate the precious gift of freedom you continue to give to me. ~ Shelle Michaels

Sushi Rocks!

The boys LOVE Sushi in all it's forms (well probably not ALL, not the real actual Sushi, lol). They do however, love the Americanized version of it. Yesterday we picked up a platter as a treat. They had it today and they scarfed it in less than 5 minutes. I'm not even exaggerating. I told my MIL to grab some before it was all gone. I don't think she believed me until she saw that the kids were trying to figure out who got the remaining pieces. I'm not a fan of the stuff but I enjoy watching the boys devour their special treat!

O' Christmas Tree!

Yes, I admit I have been a little bah-humbugish and it has taken a while but we finally got our tree up. The kids had a lot of fun getting it put together. As we were putting our tree up and getting all the ornaments on it, I realized that if anyone closely inspected it they would see we are a true Army family. One of our traditions is to buy a new ornament every year. They always end up being the Army/Military ones. I love looking back at them. I took pics of them and put them in a slideshow! Enjoy!

Our Christmas Wish Video

I know others have done video montages with this song as well. This is the Albrecht version of Our Christmas Wish. We love and miss you Kevin, we wish Santa could bring you home but we know he can't. We are always together in our hearts, distance can't separate us there.

Daniel Size Pizza Slice

So today my mother-in-law and I went to do some final shopping for the boys. While we were out I realized that I had not eaten all day and I was starting to feel the effects of it. I decided to buy a personal pan pizza just to get something into my system until we got home. When I opened the box I realized they had cut the pizza kind of crazy and one of the pieces was so tiny. Anything this small reminds me of Daniel. He thinks everything small is Daniel size. I thought it was picture worthy!

Eye See!

Yesterday the boys all had their annual optometry appointments. Both Neil and Michael already wear glasses and Daniel wants them so bad. Daniel is still 20/20 so no glasses for him. Neil got to pick out some new frames and Michael is now in contacts! Good vision is so important but so costly too!!

You know mom can never behave or miss an opportunity to hear my boys giggles, so as we were filling out the paperwork, I had them answer the questions outloud to me.

Me: Daniel, do you have difficulty driving?
Daniel: (giggling) NOOOO! I'm only 7!

Me: Neil, have you been drinking beer?
Neil: (grinning from ear to ear) Moooooooom!!! NO! (giggle, giggle)

Me: Michael, I'm very serious because you know that you are a teenager and I have concerns. Are you doing drugs?
Michael: (giggling, he has the best giggle) NOOOOOO mom!
Me: Michael, have you been drinking after school when you tell me that you are staying after for band tutoring?
Michael: (still giggling) Mom, no, I don't drink!!!
Me: Well are you pregnant?
Michael: Nooooooooo (at this point he is laughing so hard and so is everyone else in the office).

I look at all the boys very seriously and tell them how glad I am for the opportunity to have these important talks with them once a year at the eye doctor!!

Neil checking out the frames.

Michael getting his contact training!

Looking good!

Daniel having his eyes checked!

Christmas Goodies!

One of the things our family loves to do this time of year is make Christmas goodies to give away to friends. We started a little later this year but we got busy yesterday. The boys are big enough to help and even take care of some of the goodies themselves.

Neil starting the Rice Krispy TreatsChocolate Covered Pretzels, they look kinda crazy but taste soooooooo good!

The two pics above are of Daniel working on the Snowman and Reindeer Poop, lol
Neil working on the chocolate dipped spoons.

Michael and his peppermint chocolateThe best part of baking is tasting your product, LOL

Go Make a Difference

This is a video I put together from pics that Kevin has sent me. When I remember that Kevin is on a bigger mission that just what the news shows, it brings comfort during the separation.

Michael....almost a Teenager

Michael cracks me up. Tonight we ran to Walmart to go and find him a new church shirt since it seems he thinks he needs to grow right out of his clothes. If you remember one of my previous entries (Michael & Aftershave) it was pretty sweet and such an "awwwww" moment. Thinking back on that I decided to ask Michael if he would like me to buy him some body spray, something that is more for his age. While I appreciate the scent that his dad wears, I don't think most 12 years old want to smell like their dad. We engage in a conversation about what most boys at his school are wearing. He mentions Axe and Tag. Of course, I had to stifle a giggle because he was kind of embarrassed. I tried to assure him, I was very serious about purchasing him his own smell good stuff if that is what he wanted. We go and look at our options and I'm amazed at all the different types of body spray. There are two men in the aisle who were terribly amused at our conversation. Michael picks up one that says chocolate something. I smelled it and asked him if he wanted to smell like a chocolate candy bar. He giggle and said NO, though I must admit that is smart marketing, what girl doesn't love chocolate. Oh wait, no girls, no girls, no girls for my boy yet!!!!

One of the guys in the aisle cracks up at me and tells Michael, maybe she wants your dad to wear it...whatever dude, go buy some Old Spice and move on! We continue looking and smelling the different scents. I find a twin pack that has a sticker that says "bow chicka wah wah". Of course I have to say it LOUDLY to Michael. I think I said it three times, telling him don't you want to wear a little "bow chica wah wah"? He rolled his eyes at me...I don't think he appreciated his mother doing the little "bow chica wah wah" chant in the Walmart aisle with two men cracking up. Finally he decides on a scent and pushes the cart quickly out of the aisle. You'd think I embarrassed him or something.

After that, we went on a search for a gift for his best friend. For those who don't know, Michael's best friend is a girl!!! They have been best friends since we moved here in 3rd grade. I love their friendship but I admit as they get older it's transitioning. Mostly because of the other kids in their school teasing them. Both me and her parents try to encourage them to not worry about the other kids and be true to their friendship. So we try to find a neutral gift. Michael doesn't want to buy anything that would suggest more. He was so picky. That kid cracks me up. He was very serious about buying her some chocolate (someone stole her candybar another friend had given her earlier this week). He bought her some cute M&M's, earrings and something else I can't remember. He also bought her the cutest little card that talked about how grateful he was for their friendship. Overall, he did a good job, if I was his best friend I'd love the "neutral" gift.

I'm sad that Michael is growing up yet I love these sweet moments I get to spend with him to see his kind and loving heart. I hope that as he grows into a teenager and even an adult, that he keeps just the right amount of silliness mixed with tender heartedness and that sweet little smile of his.

Guest Blogger: Michael Albrecht

Hi, this is Michael. I’m 12 and a Boy Scout with Troop 239. I decided to do a service project collecting Beanie Babies to send to my dad, SFC Kevin Albrecht, who is currently serving in Iraq. My dad sent us a picture of some kids he visits and they don’t have a lot. I know that a stuffed animal might not keep them warm or fill their hungry stomachs but it can show them that there are people far away who care.

My dad told me the beanie babies he received came from an organization called Beanie Baby Ambassador Program. When I read the About Us section, this stood out to me. It was written by the founder of the organization.

"I grew up in Germany after World War II. The years after the war were not years of plenty in Europe. As children we rarely had chocolates. but whenever NATO troops (American troops in our area) exercised their yearly maneuvers, my sister and I invariably were showered with candies and other rare treats by these camouflaged strangers. Big smiles underlined their kindness. We didn't need language. "

I think I can support my dad and the Soldiers he serves with by doing this project. If you are interested in donating beanie babies you can mail them to our home by 1 February 2009. They don’t have to be new (just clean) or Ty brand but nothing much bigger please.

I know that because I have been given a lot, I have to give too. Thank you for helping me with my project.

Sincerely,
Michael Albrecht

Random Cell Phone Pics

I had to get some pics off my phone.

Here is Daniel cutting out his gingerbread man (that's Grandma Albrecht standing behind him)

Michael after his band performance for the student body...I kind of enjoy embarrasing him a bit.
Daniel traveling in style at our local grocery store.
Checking out these crabs they had at the store, gross. I know I did tell them not to play with them.
Michael listened.
Neil checking them out.