Annual Update: This Christmas

(Mark taking over the writing now)
Reagan is now walking everywhere. She's a bit unsteady, but that doesn't slow her down in the least. She loves our dog more than the dog likes her. Abby tolerates her because Reagan feeds her when we're not looking. And sometimes when we are. We are amazed at how fast she's growing, learning and changing. We are still waiting for the gibberish to make sense. Someday we'll probably wish for the gibberish to come back. There was no gibberish during her first run in with jolly 'ol St. Nick, just screaming.

As we reflect back on the events of this past year, its tough not to recognize just how crazy and delightful it has all been. As you've seen from the first few posts - we've been busy. We've been tested on a few occasions, but mostly - we've been blessed. We have a gorgeous, healthy, mischievous daughter, who we may be a little too proud of. You probably couldn't tell, huh?

Jessica will graduate as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner in a few months. And then back in the realm of gainful employment somewhere. We plan to travel back for her graduation from the University of Nebraska Medical Center in early May. What a milestone to look forward to! She's worked so hard -many times without any help at home. At least she only had an infant to care for on her own!

As for me (Mark) I'm as busy as ever. Probably more so if that is possible. And enjoying the excuse to get away from the office in time to put my little girl to bed at night whenever possible. Its my privilege to be the Weapons Officer and chief instructor pilot for a unique squadron here in FL that conducts operational test and tactics development for F-15Es, F-15Cs, and of course F-16s. And I was selected for promotion to Major recently - a rank that I should actually pin on some time next year.

We are planning on spending Christmas and New Year's in South Dakota with our families. We will also celebrate Reagan's first birthday there. Its been quite a while since we've travelled home for the holidays - and as luck would have it, many of our extended family will be there to for a change. It promises to be a great trip. I only wonder how quickly the grandparents excitement over grandkids will fade after a few days of screaming kids and mayhem in their otherwise quiet homes. But they've already agreed to the madness, and it's too late to back out now.


Wherever you find yourself this Christmas, I challenge you to take a few moments to reflect and appreciate your many blessings - in spite of everyday troubles. Remember not only your own family members that can't celebrate Jesus Christ's birth in person with you, but also the scores of dedicated professional military folks who are willingly separated from their families this year. They serve all of you, and deserve your gratitude.
Merry Christmas to you all! Many blessings from the Almighty in the year to come!