one year later

 the difference a year can make

 May 2011 and 2012

with Jared this time

 I got to go with Jared and the 5th grade on their 5 day trip to Williamsburg, VA.  Like my trip with Carter, it was great.  I loved this time to spend with Jared and watch him with his friends.  Jared's favorite thing was going on the USS Wisconsin.  Here he is in front of it with his best friend.

 In Jamestown Jared was picked to scrape fur off the hide and he took the job seriously.  When he had to stop he told me, "man, I just figured out the best way to get it off".  If they would let him, I'm sure he would have happily done all the jobs in camp.

People have asked me if I will go on this same trip with Claire.  I say of course.  I can't pass up time to be with my kids.  Plus, I would worry too much if I wasn't there.  Plus, Claire would never forgive me if I didn't go with her.  Plus, time is going too fast.  Memories, it's all about making memories.

40

 I turned 40 awhile ago.  It was great. I mean it.  When people asked my feelings about turning 40, I said I was happy.  I have lived 40 years! How awesome is that!  I have 3 great, healthy kids.  I am married to my best friend (will be 19 years this June!).  Life is good.  I have no complaints.

 My big gift from Allen was that he planned a get away for me and my mom and sisters at Barnsely Gardens Resort.  It was perfect.  We ate well, we got mani/pedi's, we took walks around the beautiful grounds and snuggled up in our robes and talked and talked.