Visiting the States

I am so grateful for the military and all the chances I have. I live in Japan, on a beautiful Sub-Tropical Island. I live in a wonderful apartment that would rent for $2800.00 in the States and the military pays for my living expenses. I don't have to worry about health care, job security, or raises. These things are taken care of by the US Government.

Recently I had the opportunity to return to the States for a TDY. The military paid for me to visit my Uncle Don, Aunt Joni, and Cousin Ben. While I was staying with them I was blessed with the chance to see my beautiful daughter for the first time in almost three years. We met for lunch and had a wonderful time getting to catch up with Becky and Justin and meet my daughter as a person.


She's very quiet and shy. It took her longer than I thought to become used to me. She only spoke to me in whispers but it very smart. She watched Finding Nemo on my Ipod (with no sound) while we ate and was perfectly happy with that. I gave her some gifts as a way to remember me. Nothing big, Just a set of fun bracelets and rings as well as a set of headbands from Claire's. I know some people would think that this was a hard visit for me, but nothing has made me this happy in a very long time. II love nothing more than to see my daughter grow up in a family that loves her and cherishes her as much as Becky and Justin do. She is sealed to her parents for time and all eternity.


Something that is too important in her life and something I cannot give her. She is happy and loves her parents. I love seeing the pure adoration in their eyes when they look at her. This was and is the best thing I could do for her and for them. I will never feel as strong a bond with anyone, who isn't family, than I do with that family. Becky, Justin, and Bronte have truly blessed my life and there is nothing in this world that could make me regret my decision. If you know me at all, you know that I talk about them every chance I get. I love to tell my story and share my experiences. This is truly one of the best.


A day after that visit I left Utah for Kansas, I drove the distance of 1,061 miles in two days. Here are a few pictures of that trip. I love the landscape in Utah.




While I was home I was able to attend a baby shower for my best friend, Heather. This is a photo of her and her two older children, Daylon and Dezare, at the shower. It only took me 15 pictures to get one with everyone looking at me(mostly). There's also a photo of them with thier Aunt Erica. That's right yours truly!



After a few wonderful days at home I was ready to go to Wichita Falls, TX and attend my schooling. It was a very informative class and I was grateful for the chance to attend. Here is a picture of the sunrise I caught right before class. I think it's beautiful.



Well, That's it for now. I have to get up early for physical training tomorrow and need my beauty sleep.