
Well the last couple of weeks have been a roller coaster of experiences and emotions as we have prepared for the dreaded day of Shane leaving for Afghanistan. We tried to cram in as much family time as possible. Shane was lucky enough to get a little time off work before he had to leave. We took Madelyn to a USU gymnastic meet, went up to Hardware Ranch on a Sunday morning to feed the elk, took the kids to eat at their favorite restaurant (Texas Roadhouse), went to a few movies & rented a few, and just hung out together. It's pretty sad how we get caught in day to day life being busy and all and forget what we already have. The last couple of weeks I've been so grateful for my family and friends, they've been great. Here's a picture of Shane playing dress-up with Tate. He loved having the box on his head, only problem was his head is already heavy enough and he couldn't walk straight!

We had to take Shane to the airport bright and early Monday morning. The kids all did great. Everyone has been asking how it went, well it went as good as it can. It's always hard to say goodbye. Bricker & Madelyn are old enough and they understand this time what is going on. They've handled it all amazingly well. I wish it were so easy for me!! Each day gets a little easier. As soon as he gets there we will be able to set up times to talk and see eachother over the internet. It's only going to be a little over 2 months. We really are so lucky it isn't longer this time!