Like A Fine Wine....

I only get better with Age! ;) This is a true statement. I think, every year, everyone reflects on the year behind them. They realize how much has changed and how different they have become in just one short year. Sometimes its for the better, sometimes for the worse. I can truly, honestly say that this year has been nothing but wonderful for me.

I remember when I was a teenager, my mom told me "your 20's are hard.. you are trying to find yourself. Your 30's are wonderful, because you get to enjoy yourself" - and ya know what? She was right, as always!

Now don't get me wrong, there were plenty of downs that went along with this year. I do feel as though the downs helped me become the strong woman you see today. As I got further away from 29 and closer to 31, I started to see the light. I seeked help when I needed it. I admitted to failure. I stood strong and proud when I felt I did something right. I stood my ground and weeded out all the negativity. I bowed out gracefully when I lost. I begged for forgiveness and understanding. I became more understanding and less judgemental. I found God again, and then I became me.

Who am I? An oversensitive housewife. A mom of two beautiful children, who are so smart and insane at the same time! A loving daughter to the craziest set of parents I have ever seen. The niece to one of the greatest aunts that has walked this planet. The wife of an underpaid, overworked veteran of the US Army, who I have ALWAYS been proud of and loved wholeheartedly. The true best friend to the greatest listener on the planet. A friend to anyone in their time of need. The owner of the stupidest, most loving dog you will ever know. The lady who seems to have spoiled children, but really is just not "sweatin' the small stuff." ..and many many more things, because, I. Am. Me!

Happy 31st Birthday Krissi... and here is to many many more!

Suffering from Bipolar??

...No, I don't consider it "Suffering" - I consider it "Living with Bipolar."

There are so many people who bitch and moan that they have a mental disease. They use it as a crutch to act like an idiot and/or crazy. I have chosen to take the high road. I talk about it openly, I am NOT ashamed to say that I have a chemical imbalance. I have had a many, many ups and downs over the last year or so, but I have a wonderful doctor who has been very supportive and helped me every step of the way. Not to mention my amazing family & friends. I cant imagine how my life would be without the support of my circle of trust.

Within the last week I have had to have my meds increased due to my anxiety flying high. I was proud of myself for admitting that I was having "manic" moments and went into the doctor right away. He gave me a shot to calm my nerves (Since I was scratching myself so bad I almost drew blood) I started my new meds and I can already feel a difference.

I want to thank those of you who have stood by my side through EVERYTHING. I will forever be grateful for the friendships that I have built over the last few years. For those of you who have been a victim of my attacks, I sincerely apologize for possibly hurting your feelings or making you feel as if you are not important to me, because you are! Everyone in my life will always hold a special place in my heart. <3

~K

Another Baby??

No, no way in hell!! I know a lot of you were thinking that was our "big news", but you are far from close!!

Actually, I just wanted to take a moment and update everyone on the lives of the McDuffies. Over the last couple years there have been a ton of changes around here. We are on a path to finding ourselves. I have been diagnosed with Bipolar disorder as well as a few other issues. I have had a series of ups and downs (which explains the deletion of some people and readding) I am finally on meds that work for me and I feel "normal" again. John has been by my side every step of the way and I am so proud to say that I feel as though the manic ups/downs have almost completely ended.

Now onto John, which is the biggest news of all. We have both had a lot of stress put on us since he took this new job with the University. Things changed almost instantly there. He went from a job that he loved and took pride in, to a job that wore him down mentally. He was turning into someone that was not familiar to me or our family. So this week, after a very intense meeting with his supervisor.. he told me he just cant do it anymore. We went over our finances and before any big moves were made, he found out he could take a job temporarily with my dad at the cemetery. So, as of Friday, John is no longer employeed by the University of Colorado. This is a huge change for our family as John will be working 12 hour days 6 days a week. We will be making less than we were before, but we are thankful that we will not be without a paycheck at all.

One last note, many of you have asked about the police positions that John has applied for. As of right now, Golden & Boulder have chosen not to move John on with the application process. He will continue pursuing his dream of becoming a police officer and when the time is right, it will happen.

John and I would like to take a minute to thank everyone who has been by our side and who continue to support us. Without the love and support of our family and friends we would be lost.

Much love to you all and God Bless you.

The McDuffie's