Right before these 'business trips', I cry randomly. I feel so depressed that I get incredibly lazy and immobile all of the sudden and it sucks. The good thing for great blogs that I follow is that I am able to read through all your blogs and leave blog post length comments (sorry!). The bad news for me is that I think a certain "Osama Bed Linen" is hiding in the ever so growing mountains of dirty laundry in my laundry room!! And all of this is right before my husband leaves.
But you know what dear readers and friends, I usually get through it alive and well. Well, I have to. When he's out the door, reality bitch-slaps me in the face and I have no choice but to get to work! A better schedule is set for the children (and my sanity),even more time is spent at playgrounds and indoor parks, and my cooking creativity goes through the roof! I focus even more on the children's palates which is most certainly a challenge, but it helps me learn new ways to get them to eat a lot healthier.
My husband's been deployed for weeks and months at a time many times before, but this time, I do not feel so confident. I am utterly terrified. I have been quite depressed for the past 2 weeks, trying to stay brave, but everything brings tears to my eyes. Is that pathetic? Maybe. Normal? I'd like to think so. During the last big deployment, I only had 2 children who were 2, and an infant, and I was terrified then. Fortunately I made it out a stronger person. This time I have 3 children who are 5, 3, and 1! Will I make it out at least alive? Hopefully! If I don't blog or update my Facebook page call me!
So during times pathetic pessimism (try saying that Sylvester the cat!), I desperately need comfort food. My comfort food of choice tonight? Bacon. Bacon Pancakes to be precise! These are so simple and crazy delicious! Sweet and smoky at its finest!
Bacon Pancakes, like Blueberry Pancakes but only it's Bacon
Ingredients
-8 slices of bacon roasted and chopped
Your choice of topping- I used real Maple Syrup
Directions
Preheat oven to 400F
on a shallow roasting pan (even better one with a rack) place bacon on.
Pop into the oven for 10-12 minutes or until crisp!
 |
| oven crispy! |
Crumble or chop/ leave about a tablespoon for garnish if desired.
Spray griddle or skillet with spray or butter, then set heat to medium heat. Scoop out about a 1/2 cup of pancake batter of each pancake on your griddle, and spread into a flat circle gently. Sprinklea handful of bacon on. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until a mass amount of bubbles form over the top. Flip, cook for another 2 minutes. Repeat until batter and bacon is gone!
Drench maple syrup and garnish with leftover bacon (if desired).
That not only helped me feel better, but put a huge smile on my whole family's face and I predict many easy breakfast dinners in the future. Thanks for reading my sad ramblings.
You will certainly come out of this alive. Such a cute pic of the two of you. It seems like you've already planned things out well as far as the children and their schedules go. I think the distance from your hubby will certainly be a huge challenge that will certainly make you emotional. I hope that seeing your husband's personality and mannerisms in your children will help you get through it. Wow bacon pancakes...I'll have to tell my fiance about this...he cures his own bacon...he's gonna love this. I will be thinking about you and your family as you go through this transition.
ReplyDeleteHey lady, I'm sorry that you are having to face such challenges. You've done it before and I am confident that you can do it again. I can tell you're a fighter and you're not just gonna give up so easily. :). Wow, you have such an important role in your family--not only are you a rock for your children, you are one for your husband too. I'm sure it gives him peace of mind knowing that he has a great wife at home being a wonderful mother to his children.
ReplyDeletePlease feel free to leave post size comments on my blog anytime. Also, I already think you are a cooking genius, I can't even imagine any more creativity. I can't wait for your future posts--I may not make the food (although I would like to) but I will definitely be drooling while looking at the pix. BTW--my husband would love this meal but I hate bacon (even the smell) so I don't know if I would be able to make this one. I know... my husband think it's also nuts that I don't like bacon. Hehe!
I have one tiny advice--enjoy the time that you have with your hubby now. I know it's difficult bc you are thinking about the fact that he will be away. Just enjoy him (adorable picture of you two by the way). ::Virtual hugs::
How long will your husband going to be gone this time? I can only imagine how difficult it must be on so many levels. Thinking of you and really appreciate the sacrifices that our military families make to keep the peace and ensure our safety! And your bacon pancakes really really really look good. There are few things that bacon doesn't make better!!
ReplyDeletexo,
wendy
My thoughts are with you and your family that your husband comes home safe and sound. He's lucky to be so loved.
ReplyDeleteThose pancakes seem like quite the comfort food! If I made those my boys would be in greasy hog heaven.
I can only imagine what you are going through. Continue to be strong. I love how honest you are. You guys are such a cute couple! These bacon pancakes are awesome. I just love that sweet and smoky combo!
ReplyDeleteP.S. I lol'd at "Osama Bed Linen" :-D
Thank you for the sweet words everyone!
ReplyDeleteOsama Bed Linen cracks me up every time, too, Marisa haha.
Wendy he'll be away for most of the autumn, come back for a couple monhs then be gone for most the winter and spring!! yeah, I have to keep my supermom bloomers on!
Times like this I wish I was stateside with friends and family, but I've gone through this alone before, I can hopefully do it again. The great thing is my son's grandparent's moved to the area, so he will spend time with them more often.
I'm sorry you're down, Sommer, I can't imagine having my spouse leave for such long periods of time. Please know you're never alone, even though I'm miles away you're still in my heart and thoughts everyday! You're an inspiration to me as a cook, mom, wife and all around awesome person.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of bacon in pancakes..those are two of my son's favorite food! Ever since I got the tip from you to bake bacon, my kitchen looks so much cleaner :)
Stay strong Sommmer and don't hesitate to ask for support.
ReplyDeleteA big hug. We are here for you, even if a computer away. As you know you have done it before and you can do it again. Stay strong.
ReplyDeletebacon on pancakes I should try it. i love bacon, especially when my father in law cooks it on top of his home made break, LOL :)
Another hug.
awww. you're not alone. If you need anything, Im here for you. I mean that. A call in the middle of the night or just another adult to talk to. I understand. You are strong and will keep busy and cooking away! When you need a mommy break just call :)
ReplyDeleteI've had to go 6 months without my husband at one point and it was brutal..so I understand. You get yourself into a routine because thats all that keeps you from going crazy. It was at night wich was the hardest for me..after everyone was in bed and my mind was able to wander.
ReplyDeleteFacebook and blogs will help for sure and cooking and baking and staying busy in any form will certainly help.
You are a strong woman and you.can.do.hard.things. I had to keep telling myself that over and over : )
You and your husband are absolutely adorable together! You will definitely come out of this a much stronger person... and my oh my... bacon pancakes! How have I never thought of that? I'm trying them pronto!
ReplyDeleteSommer, I cannot imagine the life of an armed forces spouse. I think it must be immeasureably harder than typical motherhood, because at times you are in essence a single parent, but at the same time you have to fear for the safety of your husband. I think you deserve all of the bacon pancakes you can eat!
ReplyDeleteYour post made me cry, but that might have had something to do with the fact that I was up with my one-year old twice last night. It's fairly easy to bring me to tears when I am this tired, but it also speaks to your beautiful post. It tugged at my heartstrings.
Our kids are the exact same ages. Wish you lived stateside so we could do playdates!
You ladies are so sweet and encouraging! It's so wonderful to know that there is someone on your team rooting you on. I wish nothing but awesomeness for you all, too!
ReplyDeleteMrs. K, the small bit of advice is the most important. We have a couple days left. Tomorrow is my son's birthday so it will all be about the lil man ;) But not the night ;)
They're soooo good, Peggy! Put a biggol smile on my face!
Thanks Becca, you're awesome!
Thanks Sonya! I can totally relate to the nights...and as much as I love the cold and foggy days, those really made me feel depressed during the last deployment. So my rolladens will always be up so I can soak in some sunshine.
Oh Carolyn you made laugh! Thanks! I understand the the sleep-deprived overemotionalness hehe. I'd love to have a playdate with you and your lil ones! I can learn some AWESOME baking tips from you as well! You're so creative! Always look forward to your stories, too, because I can totally relate. Well not being an awesome runner, but you've inspired me to look for some jogging shoes haha.
Sommer, I truly feel for you and know where you are coming from. I met my husband when he was stationed in Germany and the first several years of our marriage it was all about the TDY's. I came to loathe them, even though I knew I couldn't do anything about it. The last couple of weeks before my husband left were always the worst for me too. Once he was gone I would pick myself up and be wonder woman until he returned. We had one smooth running household during these times. I think the strict routines is what helped me stay sane. I will be thinking of you and your family and if you ever need to talk feel free and send an email. I know it can get pretty lonely when you don't have much adult conversations.
ReplyDeleteBut on the bright side, I'm really looking forward to all your wonderful kitchen creations that might come out of this TDY ;o)
All the best and lots of hugs !!!
Sommer and Mr. J... first of all, we want you to know that both of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Mr. J, thank you so much for all you and your family do for our country. We would not be where we are if it were not for brave men like you. My husband was AF for 9 years and sends his regards. He never did TDY like you do, longest was 6 weeks from what I remember, and it seems his quarters were probably a bit more comfortable... He travels now and leaves tonight for a little over 2 weeks, but that is nothing like you are going through. Thank you for your service!
ReplyDeleteHang in there Sommer!! I'm open for email, FB or blog comments like posts too! I noticed that some of your comments seem to be fairly late at night your time! I have a recipe that I will have to get for you that was a favorite for my kids when they were little and we made it every time Daddy left because he didn't like it. PB Banana muffins with chocolate chips... it's a huge hit, but unfortunately I like it just as much as they do and found that we needed to make two batches! The kids always mashed the bananas for me, and those darn banana were good and mashed (can you overmash a banana???)
Hugs to you and your family, Sommer. XO
Thank you Susi! Yes, when my husband is away I run an extra tight ship and when the husband comes home, he messes it all up hehe. But we're so grateful to have home, we're more than happy to forget about a schedule!! Nice to know that there is someone who's been there, too, and know how it feels..:)
ReplyDeleteKim- you're so sweet!! My husband loves that his work is appreciated by folks at home! It always a nice feeling when a friend or a stranger says 'Thank you'.
PLEASE pass the muffin recipe!! I have a lot of recipes from you that I still have to bake!!! And I will. They will be in the care packages I send to him this winter. THAT'S the only thing that excites me about this deployment is the goodie care packages I get to send to him.
Again, thank you again everyone for all the love. My pessimistic self was not expecting this at all last night. I just needed to vent my feelings. You all are awesome, I can say anymore.
My thoughts are with you Sommer.
ReplyDeleteLove those pancakes!
Sommer, you're a strong lady and my prayers are with you! Just take it one day at a time and it will be fine. I was a military brat growing up and it was hard on us when my dad went TDY. But it all turns out good in the long run. Stay strong for your little ones and take good care of yourself. Enjoy the last few days before your hubby leaves. Enjoy all that good bacon girl!
ReplyDeleteGiving you a huge hug. I really won't know what to do with myself if hubby was gone for days too. I probably would sit in bed all day and cry. He was gone for a weekend and I was miserable. I got to thinking that I might have been a little lame but then I was thrilled that I had found such a great love that a few days without him didn't feel right. It is OK to feel sad and you will for a few days. But you have little kiddos who rely on you and before you know it you will be enjoying bacon even when you're happy! :)
ReplyDeletep.s. that recipe looks amazing. i have GOT to show the hubby! :)
p.p.s. i hate that i can't comment on your blog while i am at work. i have to wait until i get home 630 - 7ish! boo!
ReplyDeleteOMG Som I am going to have to share this with Josh...he is a "dip bacon in maple syrup" kind of guy. I think bacon pancakes will send him over the edge!!!
ReplyDeleteOh, it must be so, so hard having to say goodbye to your husband like that. And then also to know that you're on your own with the kiddos. Not easy. My prayers are with you right now!
ReplyDeleteSommer,
ReplyDeleteI'm saying an extra prayer for you and your family. I can't even imagine how hard it must be for you guys. Wishing you were my way, I'd come over and hang out with you and take the kids to the park. I miss pushing the kids on the swings. You are one tuff mommma to be able to do it over and over again. If you need anything, let me know!
btw the pancakes sounds so good!
-Gina-
I'm so happy to see all of the support coming through for you from your readers. You will come out stronger for sure! You have to endure some of the bitter to really appreciate the sweetness of the sweet... and how sweet will it be when he finally returns?!!! I will keep you in my prayers. It takes a strong woman to do what you do. Wish you lived closer so I could give you a big hug. :)
ReplyDeleteYou ladies rock- I can feel the love. Big hugs back at you all!!!! <3
ReplyDeleteSommer I hope you're doing ok? And hopefully your blogging family will get you through the days (= Please tell you husband that we will be praying for him and that without him our freedom and safety would be non existent. Stay strong for you babies and I'll be sure check in on you! Stay strong mama!
ReplyDeleteHope he comes home soon and safe!! I can't stop looking at your blog. I think i am into self torture! I a half way through my weight loss goals and Bacon Pancakes!!! Are you serious??? I am really having a love/hate relationship with your pics and recipes! LOL!! I almost licked the puter screen!!
ReplyDeleteAww...I feel the pain in your post and I really hope you get to see him sooner than later. I know it's hard. Prayers with you and the babies.
ReplyDeleteHowever, the bacon pancakes. My husband will think he's died and gone to heaven.
...now smile. :)
Hi Sommer, You will make it through again this time. I hope he is back in you arms very soon. I love your idea of comfort feel good food. Bacon pancakes,now that is a special treat. We also have them for dinner instead of breakfast. I'm jealous look at that bacon, that kind just doesn't exist here. Also stopping by to let you know I'v put up your photo, thanks again :)
ReplyDeleteI cannot even imagine my spouse being gone for that length of time. I'm sure you'll survive! Love the Osama Bed Linen reference, too funny. Your so right, bacon cures all
ReplyDeleteBacon is an awesome food when feeling sad or anxious. It's a comfort food. Just mix bacon with baked macaroni and cheese and it would send me over the edge with delight.
ReplyDeleteYou will get through this stronger and better. Don't forget to have fun, join friends and eat well.
Sommer I know that it must be so hard to have your husband away for long periods of time. My husband travels a lot for business also and it is hard. I really hope you find ways to get through. Try to do something for yourself that makes you smile each night. Keep blogging and your blog friends will help encourage you. The pancakes look great. I like salt with sweets. have a great night!
ReplyDeleteMama Hen
I hope you have all the strength you need to make it through until your husband's safe return!
ReplyDeleteBacon will help!
oh Sommer I just love you! Love how real you are. Thank you for sharing this will us. You know you have the support of so many mommies. We are with you girl!
ReplyDeleteMy Hubs was gone for long periods of time for work and I, along with many of the other ladies, did the same thing...ROUTINE. Chick-fil-a was my saving grace. i could tell you some stories...
It is interesting though, how you delve into your creative ventures head first, isn't it? It almost becomes as important as eating or sleeping.
Well, hang in there woman! you are amazing, fierce and funny as hell. Hugs girl! p.s. put on some cozy pants (unless 'ol "bed linen" got to them first) and eat a plate of those pancakes for me, k?
p.s.s. thanks for all your super awesome comments. you just bless my little socks off!
OH my word. Bacon pancakes. I am currently stuck in an insomniac vortex due to a terrible sinus infection that chooses to get worse once the sun goes down and give me hot flashes all through out the night. So I stumble upon your lovely place here. I must try this recipe. Once I'm better of course. In the meantime, I hope you dont go insane while your hubs is away. Stay strong. But cry when you need to!
ReplyDeleteMy best, Lynn