Military Archives – Jamieson Diaries

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Memorial Day Spread with Conagra

May 5, 2021 Comments : 2

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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Conagra Brands. All opinions are mine alone. #ConagraHonorYourHeroes

What is better than sharing a meal with your military Dad who often travels for work? Being a military family means spending a lot of time away from family, but especially your military member. One way we’re Honoring Heroes, this Memorial Day is by creating lifelong memories between my husband and daughter, over delicious food. Bonding over a meal is the ultimate way to say thank you and we love you. Thankfully, Conagra has all of your Barbeques/Grilling food needs in order to celebrate such an occasion too! And to take it a step further, Conagra is making a donation to Operation Homefront to support military families.

All Posts, Dear Diary, Family Love, Travel

California Family Trip 2018

February 18, 2018 Leave a Comment

Jordyn and I traveled to California last week. My husband was in California for a month and a half for work. Jordyn and I met him there towards the end of his work commitment. We flew there and road tripped back with him to Montana. Going to California is always a good time because we get to see so many of our loved ones when we’re there. My father in law even flew into town from Florida for a few days so we could spend some much-needed time with him. Although Jordyn and I ended up catching colds the last week of the trip, we had an amazing time, and can’t wait to see everyone again.Read More

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See You Later, Grandma Toni!

January 10, 2016 Leave a Comment

Kris, Jordyn and I were lucky enough to have my Mother-in-law a.k.a. Grandma Toni, here in Montana with us for about a month and a half. We really enjoyed having her here and we are so sad she had to leave us. Jordyn especially loved having her Grandma Toni here to follow EVERYWHERE like she was her little shadow. Jordyn adores her Grandma Toni (because Grandmas are always the superstars) and I’m sure she’s wondering where she is, and why she didn’t get to see her this morning.

I’m sure you’ve all heard the classic Mother-in-law horror stories, but I’m one of the select few who can brag about not only having an awesome mother-in-law, but a great relationship with her as well. As always when we’re together we always have such great, in-depth, conversations about life in general. It was especially nice to have an adult to talk to during the day while Kris is at work and I’m hanging with the munchkin. All of my fellow SAHMs (stay at home Moms) understand what I mean! Oh, did I mention how much she HELPED us around the house. I think I’ve done the dishes and laundry ONCE since she’s been here, and I’m not going to lie…I got spoiled rotten. While she was doing the dishes last night I said to her “I’m going to have to start doing my own dishes again” in the most pathetic sounding voice ever LOL.

From bath time, to potty training, to hanging out in the man cave watching movies on the projector and sharing popcorn together, Jordyn and her Grandma were able to create a lot of fun memories. I’m sure the little munchkin will expect Mom (as she calls me) to keep most of these fun traditions up now that Grandma has gone back home. However, she will surely miss Grandma Toni’s cell phone (and sharing Sesame Street videos to Grandma Toni’s Facebook wall LOL) because Mom isn’t as willing to let her play with hers since she broke Mom’s last phone -_-.

One of the hardest parts of being a military family is being based so far away from family and friends. You would think as many times as we have visitors we would get used to the “see you laters” but in all honesty they only get harder. Being married, and even more so, being parents, you learn exactly how much family means to you, and how much you took them for granted when they lived up the street. Thankfully, it is 2016, and we have amazing technology that allows us to be closer to loved ones even when they’re hundreds of miles away. There will be plenty of Facetime calls and Facebook posts until we are able to see each other again. (Prayerfully sooner than later!)

Thanks again for spending so much time with us, Grandma Toni. We are surely going to miss you around here. Safe travels back to Illinois, and we all love and miss you already. Try not to be too sad, because although it’s extremely hard to be so far away from each other, we’re blessed to have people to love and miss as much as we love and miss each other.

We love you!

Brie <3

[01.10.16]

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16 Goals For 2016

January 3, 2016 Leave a Comment

Now that we’re in the year 2016 I wanted to make a list consisting of 16 goals to accomplish this year. I chose sixteen goals because who’s really going to write out two thousand and sixteen goals? Exactly. But in all seriousness I like to brainstorm things I would like to accomplish or improve, write them down, and hold myself accountable to these goals. I refuse to call them resolutions because goals that are taken seriously and strategically planned out tend to drive me more than the cliche new year resolutions ever will.

These are the sixteen goals I wish to accomplish in 2016:

1) Bi-Monthly Food Box

Now that I am getting into couponing I want to be able to bless others as well. I would like to put together a food box at the very least every other month to donate to a local family in need. It’s not major, but it’s a step in the right direction towards helping others beyond volunteer work in 2016.

2) Potty Train Jordyn

I’m pretty sure this is pretty understandable to those who have and don’t have children. However, we would like to talk about another child in 2017 (yes a whole year from now) but the conversation won’t even begin until Jordyn is fully potty trained.

3) Pay Off (A) Major Debt

As your average millennial buried in wonderful college loans, I would like to eliminate some, if not all, debt unrelated to my college loans. I’m aiming for financial freedom as soon as possible.

4) Visit 3 States BESIDES Illinois

My husband and I both are from the surrounding Chicago suburbs. Which means we always to IL for vacations to see family. However, in 2016 I want to explore and travel more than around/to IL.

5) Squat 150+ lbs

Because we all know strong is the new skinny. 2015 has shown us being fit and in shape is more important than being skinny. I plan to work on conditioning and strength this year.

6) More Base Activities

Now that pretty much all of my close friends have moved to new bases and states I need to find more friends. Haha j/k (sort of) I want to be more involved in base activities in general because I believe as a military community it’s important to be an important part of the community.

7) Visit 1 New Montana City

I’ve lived in Montana for almost 4 years and there are many large/popular cities I have never been to yet. Since we live here we need to take advantage of the places around us this year.

8) Visit The White House

We are planning another trip to Washington D.C. to see friends this year since we did not make it there last year. I want to reschedule a White House tour because this is the last year President Obama will be in office.

9) Spend <$100 On Grocery Trip

I’m officially one of those crazy coupon people trying to learn the ways of the couponing professionals. A major goal of mine is to spend less than $100 on a usual two week grocery shopping trip. I believe in me!

10) Take A Cooking Class

I’ve always wanted to take a cooking class. It has always looked like so much fun and would be a perfect date night idea. The husband and I have to make this happen this year.

11) Grow Blog Subscribers By 100+

I currently have 75 subscribers to my blog and would like to grow this list by at least 100 more this year. This is a huge challenge, but it’s one I am up for!

12) Do More Volunteer Work

As most of you know I am a (now level 1 certified) basketball coach for Special Olympics Montana. However, I would like to spend more of my down time helping others vs. doing things selfishly for myself. Selfless vs. selfish is the motto.

13) Eat Cleaner

This goes right back to fit being the new skinny. I want to eat cleaner for my health and my appearance. 70% of losing weight and getting in shape is what we put in our bodies so I need to do better this year.

14) Monetize Blog

I haven’t gotten a lot more serious about blogging. Writing is something I love to do and I would love to merge my passion with my purpose and create a job from it. Who doesn’t want to make money doing what they love?

15) Take A Dance Class

I’m not just talking about any dance class, I want to take a professional ballroom dance class. Learn to salsa, foxtrot, merengue, swing dance…anything!

16) Go To A Concert

Unfortunately living in Montana means we don’t have many diverse, main stream artists come here to perform. This year I would love to go to a popular artist’s concert even if it means traveling to a bordering state to do so. Especially if the artist is worth the hype.

You have officially read my goals (and reasoning) for 2016. I will try my hardest to accomplish all of them this year. What are your personal goals this year? Share in the comments below!

Brie <3

[01.03.16]

All Posts, Family Love

Merry Christmas 2015

December 26, 2015 Leave a Comment

Merry Christmas everyone! We thoroughly enjoyed our Christmas day here in the Jamieson household. We were even lucky enough to have my Mother-in-law here to celebrate this special day with all of us.

Christmas is my absolute favorite day of the year (followed closely by my birthday) so it’s safe to say I’m the cheesy, corny, overly excited person on Christmas day. I expect, starting on Christmas Eve, to play Christmas music, watch Christmas movies, cook Christmas-y foods, and spread Christmas cheer and love. Yesterday I hosted Christmas Eve dinner with our Montana “framily”. It was always a tradition with my immediate family to have a large Christmas Eve dinner so we could all relax and eat leftovers on Christmas Day. Last night we all ate plenty of food and shared even more laughs. It is always a great time to create more memories with the people closest to you.

This morning Jordyn woke up after 9:30 a.m. due to her running around with her friends the night before and staying up later than usual to mingle with our guests. However, once she was awake we got the party started! We facetimed my Mom, Grandma, and sisters in Chicago while Jordyn opened her gifts, and we all opened our gifts to/from each other. Although Jordyn loved all of her gifts, she particularly loved her kitchen set and shopping cart from Grandma Kim. Grandma Toni was awesome enough to put both of them together so little miss Jordyn could enjoy them right away. Yay for having two awesome Grandmas! 🙂

We have spent the rest of the day lounging around the house watching Jordyn and Ares play with their presents, the Bulls won, we called family members, and felt more than thankful to have so many loved ones to create awesome memories with. Oh, and of course eating plenty of leftovers!

The Jamieson family hopes all of you had a blessed Christmas day and an even more blessed Christmas night. Remember through all of the gifts and material things that will cross your path today what the day is actually about. If you didn’t get the chance to thank God for the birth of His son this morning, it’s not too late to do so now. There is simply no Christmas without CHRIST.

Merry Christmas family and friends!

Brie <3

[12.25.15]

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Happy Veterans Day

November 11, 2015 Leave a Comment

I made the mistake of watching the video posted below before typing this post, so sorry in advance for any misspelled words and incoherent sentences while attempting to type through my tears. Today is the day we are grateful and thankful to all of the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. I personally know many people who have served and continue to serve the United States of America. Out of all of them, my favorite military man in the whole wide world is my selfless husband, Kris. He serves in the United States Air Force and I couldn’t be more proud of him if I tried.

In addition to my husband I am thankful for all of our military family and friends and want to wish all of you a very special Happy Veterans Day as well. There are way too many of you to name, but you know who you are, and if you didn’t already know, you now know how much I appreciate and love you all.

This is my favorite military surprise homecoming video and I share it every year on my Facebook page. This year I’m sharing it on the blog so more people can see it and cry with me 😉

Thank you again Veterans! You are very appreciated!

Brie <3

[11.11.15]

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Farewell, Miller Family!

November 1, 2015 Leave a Comment

Today, our awesome and close friends, the Millers, started on their journey to start their new chapter at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Talk about a bittersweet (definitely more bitter than sweet) feeling. They have been ~~stuck~~ here at this base for a very long time so this new journey of positive changes and more opportunities is much deserved. But to start a new journey it requires leaving your current one, and that is where the sadness comes in.

Krissy and I have become extremely close since I moved here in January of 2012. She’s for sure my best friend here, and we’re so close we even call each other “Sister Wife.” Let me explain…(LOL) when either of our husbands were gone for long periods of time doing Air Force stuff, the other’s husband stepped in and helped out where the other couldn’t. For example, when I was in my first trimester of pregnancy Kris was gone for six weeks doing work in California. This means Krissy’s husband, Isaiah, would come take my trash out, lift heavy stuff around the house if needed, invited me over for dinner etc. We joked that each other husbands was our second husband and started calling each other Sister Wife.

When I found out I was pregnant Krissy was the second person in the world who knew. When she found out she was pregnant six months later I believe I was the second person to know about it as well. And when I say we shared this news with each other, in both instances it was an actual picture of the positive pregnancy test right after getting the results hahaha. If we ever needed anything or someone to rely on for any reason, we always knew (and still know) we could count on the Millers. They’re the type of friends who become family and a part of your life forever. In this crazy world, military life world to be even more specific, it is hard to find people you genuinely can call lifelong friends. It’s part of the life we live to meet people, become friends, and start over again once getting orders to a new base. Thankfully, we had a pretty great group of friends here in Montana who have all left by now, but are still some of the closest people to us.

It’s going to be a huge adjustment for my family and I to not be able to call you guys and hang out whenever we want or watch our baby girls play together. Jordyn and I will actually have to start attending playgroups without our BFFs :-(. I think I’m even more emotional than usual because of the holiday season. We always spent Halloween at you guys house eating delicious soup of some sort and passing out candy to the kids while looking at their awesome costumes. Isaiah always deep-fried the Thanksgiving turkey (which I refuse to eat any other way now lol) for our big f(r)amily dinner and the same goes for Christmas.

Although we will miss you guys for the small activities and huge holidays, I am so happy you all get to finally be near an ocean again! (The Pacific will just have to do for now 😉 ) Have tons of fun for us, and prayerfully we will meet you guys there in Vandenberg one day soon. Safe travels, we love you guys tons, and miss you so much already. But of course we miss Norah a.k.a Chunky Cheeks the most ;-). Thank you for being great people and even more amazing friends. We are thankful for all of the memories we have created over the years.

It wouldn’t be right if we didn’t take one last group picture filled with hilarious-ness and attitude from our little divas LOL.

Farewell, Miller family!

Brie <3

[11.01.15]

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Remembering 9/11

September 11, 2015 Leave a Comment

September 11th, 2001, is a day many of us will never forget. I’m sure, like myself, most of you can remember exactly where you were, what you were doing, and even what you were wearing when the news of the first plane hitting the World Trade Center south tower had been reported. Most people my age remember being at school, and having televisions rolled into the classroom to watch the news coverage. However, I was at home sick for the day, and was watching the live news coverage with my Grandma. I had been asleep in her bedroom when she woke me up telling me a plane crashed into one of the World Trade Centers. I was a little groggy, and didn’t quite comprehend what she had said to me until I walked into the living room, and saw it plastered all over the news. I can’t really explain my initial reaction besides “confused”. I think most of us were confused though. We were confused because in the beginning we didn’t even realize we were being attacked by terrorists, but believed a plane may have lost control and made an unfortunate crash into the building. It was once the second plane crashed into the second World Trade Center, on live television, that all of our confusion turned to fear and sadness. These emotions were only heightened once we heard of the third plane aiming for and hitting the Pentagon, but thankfully the plane was full of courageous people who had the opportunity to take a stand before more lives were lost in the Pentagon. What stood out to me then, and still to this day, was the realization of that horrible day in history, and being alive to live through it. As a middle schooler at the time, we spent so much of our time in classrooms learning about the atrocities that have happened in history, but it seemingly being so far out of reach because we weren’t around for it. And here we were, living a history that our children, and grandchildren and every generation to come, would read about in text books, also feeling so far removed from it.

Fourteen years later and we’re still feeling the effects of this disaster in everyday life. Whether it’s the constant reminder for those who lost loved ones, those who survived this vicious attack, those who walk by the memorial in New York City every day, those who have lost a loved one in the war against terror, or those families who are still torn apart because their loved one(s) are currently serving tours in Afghanistan or Iraq. (As a military spouse, I pray everyday for those spouses and children who lost Fathers and Mothers in this war.) I also pray for those who still battle the demons of losing someone close to them on, or directly related to, such a tragic day.

Today, I will spend the entire day with my family. As I enjoy the day with my family, I will be thinking of all of those families who lost loved ones, and continue to remind myself how blessed I am to spend this day, and any day, with those I love. Today, I hope we all remember how much damage evil and hatred can do, and in return, share as much love and positivity as we possibly can. Love is so much greater than hate, and I pray that all sadness be turned into joy.

No matter how many years go by, we will always remember 9/11/01.

Brie <3

[09.11.15]

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Utah 2015

May 29, 2015 Leave a Comment

As I had stated in my second to last blog post, we took a trip to Utah last week, and we had such an amazing time. We really enjoyed catching up with friends, and taking our first road trip as a family. We did some sightseeing and plenty of eating while we were there. It is a potential base for our family to end up as well, so we really appreciated the fact that we liked the area. Jordyn and I even found a little splash park on base while exploring the base while Kris worked one afternoon. She LOVES water so she had a great time :-).

I thoroughly enjoyed the large and up close mountainous view, as well as, the cleanliness and simplicity of downtown Salt Lake City. The people were nice, there was plenty to do, and we did as much as we could. Ed Sheeran was there in concert one of the nights we were in town, and I was so sad I hadn’t known that information prior to going. I would have for sure tried to get tickets, because I love Ed. However, I spent the evening with friends, shopping, and surrounded by beautiful imagery. This is what the mountains looked like outside of our hotel room on base.

Kris LOVES aquariums, so for his actual birthday, we went to the local aquarium. We had a really great time and the aquarium is so beautiful. Jordyn enjoyed putting her hands on the glass trying to get the not so little “fishies” attention too lol. We’re definitely going to have a little swimmer of some sort on our hands.

My friend, Rebecca and I, had been trying the entire week to make it to the zoo, but the rainy weather had other plans for us and the girls. It is for sure on our list of “things to do” when we go back to visit the Jones’ again. We had such a great time with the Jones’, Rebecca’s family, and getting a break from everyday life in Montana. We can’t wait to go back and see everyone again.

Until next time, Utah. Thanks for the great memories! <3

Brie <3

[05.29.15]

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Jordyn is 11 Months Old!

May 18, 2015 Comment : 1

This is my last official “monthly” blog post of, Jordyn, and I can’t believe how fast it has all happened. She was 4 months old when I started this blog. It’s all gone by so fast it almost seems like a blur. It was exactly one year ago, as of yesterday, I had my baby shower in Illinois, and here we are exactly one month from her first birthday. As sad as I am that my baby girl is growing so fast, I’m so happy and grateful she’s been blessed to grow so gracefully and lovingly. Here is a picture of her trying whipped cream for the first time…in case you can’t tell, she is definitely a fan!)

Today, we are leaving for our first official long distance road trip, by car. The hubby has to go to Salt Lake City for a class/training this week, and we’re tagging along, to not only get a break from Great Falls, but to spend some much needed quality time with our friends, the Jones’, who live in Utah. The Jones’ moved back to Utah a week and half before I went into labor with little miss Jordyn. This will be the first time they get to her, and she will finally get to meet them. I’m so excited all of our girls get to finally meet each other! 🙂

This last month, Jordyn has for sure found her feet. She hasn’t gotten brave enough to let go and walk on her own, but I swear this child is going for the world record of “fastest almost walking baby.” No, seriously, if you put her down at the table, and blink, she’s standing in front of the entertainment center giving you the “I’m innocent” look.

Jordyn is at the age where she definitely knows who Daddy and Mommy are, as well as, enjoying mocking Daddy and Mommy. She has also become very vocal and uses hand motions to tell you when she does or doesn’t want something. Either way, no matter what emotion she may be feeling at the time, you can be sure it won’t be a secret.

As usual she looooves her big brother too. When she sees him walking towards her she gets the BIGGEST smile on her face. If he decides to give her some wonderful licks in the process, she giggles her little heart out. These two are the cutest double trouble you will ever see.

Jordyn went swimming for the first time last weekend and oh man does she love the water! She splashed and kicked the water until she was “all wrinkled” as Dennis the Menace would say. She swam with her BFF, Norah, who wasn’t the biggest fan of the water at first, but warmed up to it and enjoyed it herself.

Have I mentioned Jordyn LOVES music. This little girl will dance and shake her head to whatever song is playing. However, she REALLY boogies down to the theme songs for the shows “A Different World” ( the Aretha Franklin intro) and “Psych.” It is both adorable and hilarious to watch.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the monthly series leading up to Miss Jordyn Denise’s first birthday. After her first birthday post/update, I will post Jordyn blog updates every 2-3 months, or share funny stories as they happen.

Say a prayer for safe travels to, around, and from Salt Lake City for us. See you all again in a month for the big, 1st birthday post!

Brie <3

[05.18.15]