What a year

In the past 12 months, we’ve navigated divorce and remarriage, blended our families, and even figured out how to merge two very opinionated dogs into one household. Cory moved to TN, retired from the Army, and we PCS'd from Tennessee to Washington—where we’re now closer to his daughter, Genie. My parents, my brothers and their families live just two hours away from US.

Blending lives at our age isn't always easy— but this has been one of the most beautiful parts of this year. Our friends and families have wrapped their arms around us in comfort, support and love (Aunt Donna you are my blankie). We have been blessed as my parents and my brothers have immediately adopted Cory… and I’m starting to suspect they may like him even more than they like me.

Through all the changes our friends and family have been our anchor. We are truly blessed to have friends open their homes and arms to us as we navigate through so many tidal changes that made up this year.

Cory and I have truly come to love spending our weekends camping and while in TN this was an adventure we enjoyed with just the four of us (Cory, myself and the dogs). Being in Washington has expanded our circle and we have been able to spend many weekends with my brothers, sister in laws and all the kids!

Since we're talking about the kids'... Erin, our oldest daughter, moved with us here in Washington, she starts her third semester of college at TCC while she waits to leave for Navy Basic in December. Layla has started her freshman year at the University of Southern California. My work life shifted from my comfort zone of policing to Star Trek type operations (learning Klingon isn't easy at all) … and right after signing in, I found out I’ll be heading to the Philippines for six months. Cory is focusing on life after the Army, after nearly 27 years it takes a bit to adjust to a regularly scheduled civilian day - Ya'll will see his woodwork progress along with our overlanding adventures. Life is busy, sometimes chaotic, but full of love, growth, laughter, and even a little anxiety (because change isn’t always easy).

Since moving here on June 26, we’ve been making memories, learning, growing, and figuring out this new life together. One thing is for sure: it’s been a year of adventure, and I wouldn’t trade a moment of it.

Here’s to love, laughter, and a little chaos along the way.

Aug 27 2024 immediately after our court house / library wedding!