Photos with Troy

Thanksgiving is a time of family, food, fun, and lots of photobooth selfies.....ok, so maybe the last one is just me and my family, but today while sitting around the house Troy and I spent some quality time with Photobooth...these are the results.  :)

I love my uncle!!!

Day 28 -- Thanksgiving

Today I am thankful for the incredible people that I have in my life...all those friends and family who have been present in my life and bless me each day by sharing their lives with me and allowing me to learn, laugh, and love them.  There are so many people that fall into this category that there is no way that I could ever ever name all of them.  However, today there are two men in particular that I have been so incredibly impressed with the more I have gotten to know them, so today, I am thankful for my uncles, Forrest and Troy.  We've lived close to each other for nearly a decade, but in the last few months we have started to spend time together and to get to know each other.  They make me laugh and tell me stories about the past that put a smile on my face.  I hate that we haven't started this process sooner, but I am so pleased to have these two incredible men as a part of my life.  When they invited us to spend Thanksgiving with them, none of us were really sure what to expect, but I have to say that I am so glad that we did.  We ate more food than we needed (thanks Troy!) and shared so many laughs. The way that these men treat my son is enough to just bring me to tears.  They are so kind and loving to him (and maybe spoil him a little) and I am so happy to see Orion love them as much as I do.  Forrest is so amazing with my son and watching Orion and Forrest play and wrestle around just makes me happy.

Troy and I are kindred spirits.  We can laugh and share stories and it's like we've been friends for years.  Just a look between us can send me into giggles and he just makes me feel like I'm doing things right.  His approval means the world to me, and I'm so glad that we're getting the chance to get to know each other....and be silly.

It's hard to believe that these men haven't been in my life for longer than they have.  I've grown so incredibly attached to them both, and am so impressed by how loving and welcoming they have been to me and my family.  They share their space and food with us, and have welcomed us into their homes with open arms.  When we're together, it feels the way I think family should feel, and that means the world to me.  So today, I am so thankful for these two men, and so appreciative of everything they have done to make the holiday enjoyable.  Thank you for welcoming us into your home, for feeding us, entertaining us, and showing us so much love and kindness.  There are no words to express just how much those things mean to me.  I love you both very much!!

Day 27 -- Enthusiasm

Today I am thankful for the enthusiasm of my son for the world around him.  His sense of joy and appreciation for the world around him never ceases to make me proud.  Hearing his tiny voice shout out in excitement when he sees something new or exhilarating always puts a smile on my face.  Today, we left the house early to go grocery shopping (exciting stuff, I know) and as we were driving home, we saw about a dozen wild turkeys crossing the road in front of our drive.  We stopped and watched them until they were safely across the street, and then continued to pull into our driveway.  As we approached the house, we saw more and more turkeys in the yard all the way around the house.  I couldn't help but think that Thanksgiving had brought itself to my house, but Orion was SO excited to see them all.  He would sneak around the corner of the house and watch them jumping up on the fence and pecking around.  He would search the small piles of snow we have left until he found turkey tracks and try to figure out where they went.  We probably spent 30 minutes outside in the chilly morning air, giggling and watching the turkeys wander around the yard.  At one point we counted, and there was well over 30 of them...not including the ones that had crossed the street on our way home. Orion was so excited and when they finally decided to leave the yard, Orion waved his arms and yelled "Bye Turkeys!  Thanks for coming!!"  I love that boy so much, and seeing how excited he gets over the little things helps me remember to find my own type of joy in the world.  Today, I'm thankful for his excitement.

Thankfulness -- a week in review

So, I fail at this thankfulness thing, but I am still going to try to finish it out.  I missed a week (I honestly forgot!) since I never post on Facebook this often.  Don't judge!  Anyway, here is my week of catch up.  Hopefully I don't have to do any more catching up between now and the end of the month!

Day 20 -- I'm thankful for desserts!  I have a horrible sweet tooth, so pastries make me very happy.  I also love baking and making new desserts, which can often be an adventure.  Desserts are fantastic and I am thankful to be able to try new ones and eat my favorites.

Day 21 -- EMTs & Firefighters.  I am proud to come from multiple generations of Firefighters and EMTs.  My grandmother was an EMT for many years, my aunt and mother are both EMTs and firefighters, my little sister even joined the department when she was 18.  As someone who has lost their home to a fire, and then many years later my work building, I am so thankful for the amazing men and women who risk their lives and work so hard to serve and protect other people.  I'm thankful for each and every person who has dedicated their lives to such a selfless task.  You are all amazing, and definitely my heroes! I am thankful for you all.

Day 22 -- I am thankful for the mistakes I have made.  I may not be proud of the fact that I have made mistakes, but everyone has.  Mine have allowed me to learn and grow as a person, and to understand both myself and the world around me better.  They have been hard, but I have learned a lot from the mistakes I have made, so I am thankful for them and the lessons I have learned from them.

Day 23 -- Laughter!  I love making people laugh, and anyone who can make me laugh.  Whether it is a long-term inside joke, or a silly text in the middle of the day, I truly appreciate laughter.  It helps build bonds and can make awkward situations a lot more tolerable.  My son's laughter is the greatest sound in the world and even on the worst day it can put a smile on my face.  Words can't explain it, so I simply say that I am thankful for laughter.

Day 24 -- Patience.  I am so thankful for all of the people in my life that have been patient with me or have helped me learn how to be more patient.  To all of the people who understand me falling a week behind in posting my thankfulness, or have listened to me whine or complain when I've had a bad day, I appreciate your patience.  It is a gift that I am still working on myself, but I strive to actually become a more patient person.  I am so grateful for those that have it though.

Day 25 -- Second chances.  As someone who has definitely made mistakes, I am so grateful for the opportunity to get second chances, and give other people the chance to prove themselves as well.  There are certain circumstances that make it a bigger challenge to give second chances, but some people definitely deserve a second chance.  We can never know what the future holds, and everyone makes mistakes.  If we expect people to forgive us, we must be willing to do the same for others.  Today, I am thankful for second chances.

Day 26 -- Inspiration.  As someone who has written and tried to be creative for as long as I can remember, inspiration is something that holds a very special place in my heart.  I have described inspiration as "an amazing lover; embracing and fulfilling, giving into your desires and making your wildest dreams come true. It can also be a cold-hearted bitch; coming back time and again at a whim, showing up when you'd rather she not, and hiding away when you're begging her to come home, showing up unannounced on your porch and demanding your attention in the middle of your birthday party. "  No matter how many times it seems like more work than joy, it's definitely a gift that I truly appreciate.  There are days where the words come easily and the ideas flow freely, but other times it's a struggle.  When inspiration hits though, it's definitely a completely different experience and I am almost always pleased.  Today, I am thankful for my inspiration.

Day 19 -- Technology

Day 19 - Today I am thankful for technology.  Computers, cell phones, Facebook, Twitter, digital cameras.....Not only have these things helped me to find a career that I love, they have also helped me build relationships with people I may not have met otherwise, allow me to keep in contact with people that may have just faded away, share pictures with my family, share jokes with my friends, and overall just remain connected with the world around me.  While it may sometimes be cumbersome to be completely connected all the time...it's also nice to be able to get a text in the middle of my day that makes me smile, or a share a picture to make someone laugh.  It's a wonderful burden overall...and I love technology.

Day 17 -- Laughter

Day 17 -- Today I am thankful for laughter.  Sharing a joke, making someone laugh, or just plain giggling always makes my day so much better.  Being able to make someone laugh is one of the things I love to do the most.  Hearing my son's laugh is the greatest sound in the world, but he definitely makes me laugh just as often as I try to make him.  Today we were playing with Seth, tossing stuffed animals at him while he pretended to ignore us.  Orion told me to throw it at his face so I, of course, threw it at his butt (butthead he he).  Orion looks at me straight faced and said "No mom.  His face is between his mustache."  I laughed so hard I thought I was going to be sick.  It's little moments like that which make my days better.

Day 16 -- My Hands

Day 16 -- Today, I am thankful for my hands. It may sound odd, but they allow me to do so much and I tend to take them for granted regularly. Without them I wouldn't be able to communicate and share my thoughts with people as regularly as I do (I am much more comfortable typing than speaking in most cases). I wouldn't know the feeling of my son's tiny hand in mine as we cross the street. My hands help me do so many things...cooking for my family, turning the pages in my favorite book, tickling Orion, braiding my hair, brushing my teeth. Without my hands these things would be a much greater challenge. Today, I am so grateful for my hands and the many things that they help me to achieve.

Day 15 -- Old Friends

Day 15 -- Today I am thankful for supper and giggles with old friends.  I was lucky enough to get to spend time with two beautiful girls that I have been friends with for what seems like forever, Celeste and Desa.  We have known each other for so long at this point (elementary school!!) that it feels like catching up with family.  I'm so impressed with the women you have become and the different paths we've all taken.  I'm just glad that those paths have at least stayed close enough to be able to continue to get together.  I love both of you very much and love getting to spend time with you.  I'm thankful to have you both as a part of my life.  <3

Day 13 - 14 Books & Music

I missed another day...Not great at the daily post thing....let's catch up.  :)

Day 13 -- I'm thankful for books.  Books are my friends when I most feel alone, keep me company when I can't sleep, tell me stories, help me escape, and show me brand new worlds.   I'm thankful for the authors, creators, and story-tellers that have entertained me, taught me, and allowed me to live vicariously through them.

Day 14 -- Today I am thankful for music.  I have such a vastly diverse taste in music that I am endlessly entertained and searching for new musicians to explore. Lately Orion has been way more interested in jamming out, asking for the radio to get turned up and headbanging to his favorite songs.  Watching my son develop his own musical taste is exciting and so funny to me.  His taste is diverse and interesting and I can't wait to see what he discovers as his next favorite

Day 11 -- Veteran's & Birthdays

Today I am twice as thankful as normal! First, I am thankful for all of the Veteran's that have served to provide me and my family our freedom. My father, grandfather, aunts, uncles, friends, and so many others have selflessly served for the rest of us. So thank you to all of the incredible men and women who have served, fought, and honored us with your dedication to our freedom. It is that freedom that I truly appreciate most. So thank you all!!

Second, I want to say thank you to all of the people who have called, texted, messaged, and posted about my birthday today. I am blessed to have such an incredible, loving, supportive group of people in my life and words can not explain just how grateful I am for all of you. Each of you is different, unique, and special. Thank you all so much for the wonderful words and well wishes. I love you all very much.  

Happy birthday to me!!!

Day 10 -- My Son

Day 10 -- I have put off this post, because it is incredibly difficult for me to put into words the feelings that I have, but I think it is time to try.  Today, I am thankful for my son.  Orion has changed my life in ways that I can't even explain.  From the moment I knew he existed I have changed my life drastically to be someone he can be proud of.  His smile lights up my world and brightens even the darkest corners of my heart.  His laugh is contagious. He is outgoing, polite, and incredibly intelligent.  He gives me a strength and courage that I never knew I had inside.  It's hard to believe that he is 4 years old already, but I am so grateful to have him in my life and so proud of the little boy he has grown into.  Being a mother is the greatest accomplishment of my lief.  Every day is an adventure full of laughter, dimpled smiles, sarcastic conversations, and the occasional preschool attitude.  I can only imagine what the future has in store for us.  So, Orion, I am thankful to be your mommy.  I love you very much!

The first time I held him in my arms. 

Trips to the Children's Museum.

I miss these curles!

True Love is sharing your waffle.

He's such a helper. 

Photography with stylish hats. 

Roca Berry Farms. 

I will never get enough kisses on his face. 

Lounging on the couch. 

Tree decorating.

Hugs!

Story Time. 

I love this smile so much and will do everything in my power to see it. 

I love my little family. 

No matter what my hair color, he loves me and is judge free. 

I hope the future holds as many laughs as our past has. 

Day 9 -- My siblings

Day 9 -- Today I am thankful for my siblings.  They are each so unique, entertaining, and interesting and I love them all.  Ashley Dawn Whitson has taught me to stay strong, even when life is a challenge.  Arlana Jo Whitson has taught me that it's ok to be my own person, as long as I'm happy.  Sandra Peck has shown me how to reach for your dreams!  Christian Peck is such an incredible young man who has shown me how to laugh.  Conrad Pacheco has taught me success through hard work and dedication.  Chrissy Tilson shows me how to be an amazing mom to boys, even when they drive you crazy!  Shawna Pacheco shows me how to stand up for myself and what I believe in.

There are so many other lessons and memories that I could share from these amazing people.  So many laughs, so many heartaches that we've gotten through together...but no matter what my goal is simply to say I love you all and am so happy to have you all as a part of my life.  Orion is blessed to have such amazing Aunts and Uncles in his life.  I love you!!

Day 8 -- Seth

Day 8 (from yesterday) -- Today, I am going to get a bit mushy, which is something I typically try to adamantly avoid on Facebook and other online venues, but sometimes it happens.  Today, I am thankful for Seth.  My birthday is right around the corner, and tonight we had our first child-free date night in close to a year.  We had a fancy dinner with loads of laughter, and just got to spend some quality time together talking, sharing, and bonding.  Those moments may seem simple, but they are incredibly important to me.  While we've had our ups and downs, I can honestly say that Seth is a wonderful man.  He has taught me so much about the world and myself, helped me grow and learn in so many ways.  He is supportive, intelligent, and charismatic.  He helps me push myself out of my comfort zone and allows me to try new things.  He listens to my rants and raves, even when he has no interest in the subject (typically there is at least some mockery).  He is such an incredible partner and friend.  He is also an absolutely amazing dad to our son.  He loves him with all of his heart and it shows.  Their laughter together is enough to make any day seem better.  So, while Seth may drive me crazy, he makes me smile and I know my life is better because he has been a part of it.  Thank you Seth for being such a vital part of my life...my family, my heart, and my world.  <3 <3

Thankfulness - Day 7

The Princess Bride has been an obsession of mine for longer than I can even explain.  I've watched the movie hundreds of times (at least) and read the book more times than I remember. It feels like home, like comfort food.  On nights when I can't sleep, Inigo can always tell me a bed time story as they prepare to duel on the Cliffs of Insanity.  As you wish is one of the most romantic phrases ever spoke.  I can always judge the quality of a story by the amount of fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, and true love that it includes.  People with six fingers terrify me, and I always hope for a Miracle. I hope to someday win a battle of wits, and wish I were able to pretend to be left handed.  Not to mention, the fact that I know the meaning of the word "Inconceivable" ...or ROUSs...because I don't think they exist.    I could quote the whole movie and make one joke after another, but I should probably get to the point...

Today, I am thankful for the Princess Bride.  It may be silly, but it's something that has had a major effect on my life.  I've build relationships with people that started with this mutual interest.  I've told all the jokes, listened to others quote it, and bonded with unlikely strangers.  I've laughed with my dad, joked with my siblings, swooned over Seth, and loved every single experience.  It's the little things in life that I have learned to find great joy in.  The first book I read to my son as a tiny infant was the Princess Bride and I look forward to sharing the story with him again when he gets older....so yeah...Thanks William Goldman.

Thankful Day 6

Today was a very long day that ended in a pretty positive way...date night with my son.  We got to talk about his day at school, which from the perspective of a 4 year old is always entertaining.  We ate some supper, which consisted only of Wendy's, but it's what he requested (chicken nuggets and chili). We also got some ice cream that we ate sitting on the floor of the living room while telling stories and laughing. After we got done eating, we spent some time snapping pics on my laptop (he loves photobooth) and watching a Monster's University for the second time.  It was a very mellow night, but something that I needed very much.  Who knew than 45 minutes of laptop selfies could be so much fun?  I love Orion more than life, and he'll absolutely get a post of his own, but tonight I am thankful for date nights with my son.

Day 4 & 5

So I missed yesterday... Oops! Day 4 - I am thankful for a good night's sleep! As someone who has trouble sleeping regularly, it is nice to be able to actually sleep for once. 

Day 5 - I am thankful for movie night with my boys. We laugh and cuddle up under blankets and just enjoy some time as a family.

Thankfulness - Day 3

Today I am thankful for afternoon naps!  Yesterday was amazing, but left me absolutely exhausted.  The ability to doze off in the afternoon and not worry about things for a while was fantastic.  It definitely helped me to get my homework finished up this afternoon.  So yes, today I am grateful for afternoon naps!

Thankful - Day 2

Today I have more things to be thankful for than words can even describe. I'm thankful for new friends, lots of laughter, the smell of bonfires, and new adventures to be had.

Thankfulness - Day 1

So since it is November, I am going to jump on the thankfulness bandwagon and do a month long tribute to things I am thankful for starting today. I am about half an hour late, but cut a girl some slack! 

Today I am thankful for happy days. Days where there are more laughs than frustrations, more smiles than annoyances, and friendly faces to help the day go by. It is a blessing to occasionally feel like things are going well and I am thankful for those days.

Busy weekend

We had a pretty busy weekend, but it was a good time overall.  Jaime came up to spend time with us, which is always fun.  We took her to Mystic Fest with us where I socialized with many familiar faces and hit up a bunch of vendors to get contacts for potential interest in PPD next year.  It was entertaining, but is always super draining, so Jaime and I came back to the house and took a nap.  We made supper, vegged out, and just had a good evening.   Sunday we hung around the house until late afternoon when we decided to take Orion to the Pumpkin Patch.  He always loves running around the fields to find his very own pumpkin.  He also ventured through all of the different "scary" houses and just seemed to have a good time.  He was exhausted (and filthy) by the time we got home.  I'd say it was a decent weekend for sure.

Coming out STILL MATTERS

Each year, National Coming Out Day is celebrated on October 11, 2013.  This day celebrates coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or as an ally.  25 years ago, on the anniversary of the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, the first National Coming Out Day was observed.  For additional information, check out their website here!

First and foremost, it is important to me to say that I fully support this movement.  I truly believe that people should be able to live their lives however they choose, as long as it is not harmful to others.  I support a culture that is diverse and independent because no matter how hard we try, we are not all the same.  We should each be free to live our lives in a way that is honest to who we truly are without the fear of persecution.  My hope for society is that we can eventually evolve to a place that we can live without being ashamed of who we are and how we feel. While the need for some sort of conformity may be warranted (i.e. laws against murder, robbery, etc.) we should not feel so much pressure to fit a certain mold in order to feel accepted by society.  This expectation is why coming out still matters.  It's important to be able to be proud of who you are.  It may suck that we live in a society where this is still an issue...where being gay isn't just a way of life but something that has to be expressly stated because it strays from the perceived "norm"...but it is and that's why this type of celebration is important.  To show people that 1, it's ok to be who you are and 2, to build support structure around the community. 

I am fortunate enough to live a life where I typically do not have to hide who I am and I am incredibly grateful for this. I typically identify as Pansexual, where gender really isn't an issue for me whatsoever.  I also happen to be Pagan, so there are a lot of "reasons" for society to hate me...and I'm ok with that.  However, I know that for every story like mine, there are 10 others where people feel alone and struggle with their sexuality every day.  Everyone deserves to feel unconditional love and to have someone to stand beside you no matter what.  No matter who you are, please know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.  No matter how scary the world may seem, or how alone you may feel, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.  For every bully that harasses you and every person who criticizes you, there is an entire community full of love to stand by your side. 

Keep in mind, I'm not some big city woman spouting this message.  I grew up in a tiny town (population 300) in mid-Western Nebraska and felt the same way there that I do here.  It's ok to be who you are.  So to my Uncle, Aunts, Cousins, Friends and so many others who have taught me so much about life and myself...I am proud of who you are and blessed to have you in my life.  The world is better because you are here. For every person who has torn you down or made you feel like less of a person because you are "different," I love you a million times more.  You are strong, brave, and an inspiration.  So on that note, I will quit rambling but please remember...no matter what...YOU ARE NOT ALONE! 

SWAG--I fail at blogging.

So, I'm not sure anyone noticed, but it's been a little while since I last blogged...I realize that is a recurring theme around here.  Life is crazy busy with school, family, work, and all the extracurricular activities we have going on.  Here are some of the recent events in our lives: 

We've been hanging out in the beautiful Fontenelle Forest! 

I've also had the chance to spend some time with my family on the Peck side of the tree.  It's pretty great to have family around!

I helped organize the first ever Pagan Pride Day, which turned out fantastically! 

I also got some henna while there

I gave a workshop during PPD which had a great turn out.  Definitely out of my comfort zone so I was quite proud of myself. 

Of course we've gone to the zoo

And I went to my first ever retreat where I got to spend some time with people I love, and meet some new amazing people. 

I road tripped up there with Amanda.  It was AWESOME!

My kid still makes me laugh. 

And these lovely ladies have made my world better. 

We went on a horse & buggy ride.  It was beautiful and so much fun. 

So there you have it, a super brief run-down of some of our activities.  I wish I could say that things will be more regular around here, but I've said it before and it tends to fall apart.  I do hope to blog more frequently, but make no guarantees.  Thanks for checking it out, loving, and supporting me.  I really appreciate it more than I can express.  

<3