There is no other feeling in this world more satisfying than to look at this baby and see that she is fat and happy! Not even 3 months ago she came into this world a little under 7 lbs. Now she has multiple chins and is smiling.( I have multiple chins...but somehow it's just not the same, and it does not make me smile!) The world is an amazing place and we are so incredibly blessed. Margot was born into a loving family, with 2 parents who love her, even when she is not smiling. She has Grandparents who love her and aunts and uncles who think she is fabulous. Thank God for this little miracle. It makes me even more aware of all those babies born into families who don't care or cannot. We need to pray for them and help them when we can. We need to remember how we are blessed every day to have loving parents and brothers and sisters, grandparents, who all care. It may not take a village, but it takes a family!

Back again

This little wren is building a nest in a bird house on the deck. I don't know if it's the same bird that nested here last year, but I like to think so. I think she enjoyed her stay so much last Spring, that she checked in again this year. What's not to love, free food, water and lodging! She has a beautiful song and sings all day long. I hope she tells all her other little wren friends.

Blowin in the breeze

My dryer is broken again... This time it may be the heating element. Not even going to think about it right now. The weather is fine, hot and breezy. Perfect for drying clothes on the line. I have to admit, I find it soothing, relaxing, contemplative. I love the look of the clothes moving with the wind. I love the smell of line dried clothes, especially sheets. I love the fact that mother nature dries my clothes for free and in less time than my dryer. So for now, it's me and the sun!

Arbuckle

On our drive to Texas we passed through the Arbuckle Lake area of Oklahoma. It's actually quite beautiful. Old, gently rolling mountains. They have at least 2 places to get off the highway for overlooks. We have driven passed them without stopping on previous trips. This time we decided to take a few minutes and check it out. Beautiful view of the valley.

That's me going all Texas...YeeHaw!

Promotion

On May 1, 2012, Bede Jr. was promoted to the rank of Major. Bede Sr. and I drove to San Antonio for the event. Bede Sr. was able to administer the oath of office to his son. Quite an honor. Bede's fiance, Brittany and her mom and dad were there as well. It was wonderful spending time with them. After the promotion, there was a reception at the squadron. Cake, cupcakes, wings, beer and sodas for all. We were so delighted to be a part of such a special day. Although how I got old enough to have a son who is a major is beyond me. It seems like it was not very long ago that Bede Sr. was a major.It just boggles the mind. I know I have mentioned before in this blog that time seems to move increasingly faster the older I get. I frequently have to remind myself to stop and take it all in. Andrew's wedding is just 3 weeks away, Bede Jr. will be married in less than a year. My grand baby is already 2 months old.It's an amazing, wonderful ride. I'm hanging on with both hands and my eyes wide open!

Lincoln Marathon & Half Marathon

                               
Bede ran in the Lincoln Half marathon this morning.

                              He and 9999 others! 8000 ran the half and 2000 the full marathon.
                 We woke up to thunder and lightening. But the weather cleared and it was perfect for the run..

                       It took Bede more than 25 minutes to get to the start gate once the race had begun.

                                                               Taking the 1st turn.

                 Finish was on the 50 yard line of Memorial Stadium.  Waiting for the runners to enter.

                                                                Here comes Bede!

                           Racers were on Husker Vision in the stadium as they crossed the finish line.
                                                   Bede's time approx -25 min of the time on the sign.

                                                             Home and ready for a rest!

                                            After a victory meal, shoes off and ready for a nap...
                                                                   Great job Bede!

Texas

Took a little trip to Texas over the weekend. San Antonio to be exact. We spent all day Monday on base at Randolph AFB. We started the day with a run (Bede), walk (me). We shopped at the BX, ate lunch and then in the afternoon watched Bede Jr. taxi his T-38 to the end of the runway and take off. Awesome day.

That's my boy!

Bede is in the front seat.

Ready for take off. There was a weird moment just about here, where I was excited, proud, yet terrified! Just being a mother. Can't stop worrying about your kids.

Headquarters, Randolph AFB.