Laughter = Love

This summer started out with the unfortunate loss of Grandma Schneider.  She lived such a fun, eventful, and loving life that she shared with all of her family and many friends.  I have always been grateful for those that are close to me, both family and friends.  Since Grandma's passing, I've felt an even stronger sentimental urge to not take those close to me for granted.  I've found myself listening to that inner voice and taking action.  You know, the passing thought that you have as you're washing the dishes that usually you would pass on because you were too "busy."  I'm not perfect at it by any means, but I'm trying my best to take advantage of those thoughts to call and catch up with people, or to at least send them a note to let them know that they are thought of.

It is true that with every door closed, a new door opens.  Though Grandma's passing was not by any means a pleasurable time, a few things happened that I will forever be grateful for.  At Grandma's memorial service I was blessed to have Britt buy my side during each moment.  Some would say that this is normal, and I don't disagree.  However, after spending 4 1/2 years divided by oceans, I can't explain how grateful I was to have the man I love standing next to me providing his love and never ending support.  My heart was overwhelmed as I was able to re-connect with family that I hadn't seen in a long time.  I remembered the love that was poured out to me as a child and I was reminded of something.......the kind of love that we feel as kids doesn't stop, we just grow older and unintentionally let life take over; forgetting that the same kind of love we felt as kids is still there.  If you're as lucky as I am, you find someone who you can pass that kind of love on to.

I was also blessed to get to know Grandma Schneider even better than I had before she passed.  I have a feeling that I'm not learning anything new though, I'm just able to understand her lessons a little bit better now.  I've been reading her journals that she kept and wrote in on a daily basis.  This is something that I still have yet to accomplish.  The one thing that continues to stand out to me as I read her daily thoughts on paper, is how much she loved Grandpa, her family, her friends, and the memories they all created together.  She made sure to remember and not let those memories fall.  I hope I can do the same.

I've been wanting to write about this for some time now, and for some reason, it's all falling into place tonight.  Love = Laughter is a reminder of Grandma and Grandpa and the loving family they created together.  One that I am ever so grateful to not only be a part of, but to make Britt a part of as well.

I love this picture of Grandma and Grandpa.  It was taken back in December 1999.

And a great current picture of Grandpa.  

Britt and I continue to enjoy our time together and be grateful that we no longer have distance between us.  Granted, he is still called upon by the Navy to get underway.  I can deal with that, knowing he is always coming home to me.  The Sailor's life is not always easy, but I wouldn't change it for the world.

One of our newly discovered enjoyments is camping.  We haven't been able to go as much as we'd like, but plan to do a lot more of it.  Below are a few pictures from Memorial Day weekend on our maiden camping trip in Williamsburg, Virginia with Britt's family.

Camp is all set-up, now all we have to do is sit back and enjoy!

We couldn't believe how much room was inside the new tent.  We really enjoyed it.  Britt looks like I put him in time-out, but I really didn't, I promise.

All that work makes a girl hungry!

Enjoying the simple pleasures.  We sat around the camp fire telling stories and sharing tons of laughs.

We couldn't leave without getting a group photo.  Fun times and many laughs.

Over the 4th Britt and I moved into our new apartment and are enjoying much more space.  We only moved down the block and are still in downtown Norfolk.  I'm not sure why we thought the move would be so much easier just because we were only moving down the block.  Wow, were we wrong!  It felt like we moved cross country.  I'm happy to say that we are all moved in now and everything has found its place.  For now anyway.  While we were moving, Mom, Dad, and Bailey were enjoying a fantastic fishing vacation on the Snake River in Washington.  This was Bailey's first fishing trip on the river with Mom and Dad.  They all had a blast!  Bailey was a quick learner and can really tell some fishing stories.....lol.

The experienced fishermen know when to take a break and plan a new attack.  They sure do a lot of planning.  Dad couldn't wait to get Bailey out on the water.

This was her first day out on the boat.  She looks like a natural.

Having a blast.  I love this picture of her.

Grandpa always lets you do the fun stuff.

The catch of the day.

She couldn't get enough.  Dad said it didn't take her any time to catch on and it wasn't long before she was casting like a pro.

They beached the boat for a bit and the fisherman kept up her skill.

The Queen of the river.

Way to go!

USS WASP (LHD-1) CPO MESS taken this past Sunday.  Britt is in the middle row, 8th from the right.

BRITT IS HOME SAFE AND SOUND

We have been waiting and planning for this day for over four years now.  I can't believe it's been that long, and quite frankly that I've been as patient as I have been.  Well, Britt might tell you otherwise.....lol.  It is such a comfort to know that we won't be saying "until I see you again" in a few weeks, and that we are both here in VA together now.

The week before Britt got here, was pretty rough, as we didn't know if he would actually be able to leave Japan as planned.  After looking forward to the day that Britt would transfer from Japan and be on his way to be with me here in Norfolk was one that we had both been looking forward to for so long.  Then, within a week of Britt's transfer date, Japan was hit with a 8.9 earthquake and a devastating tsunami.  Mother nature trumped us and we were forced to potentially wait on her.  It was an especially rough week, as up until the end, it didn't look like Britt was going to be able to leave as planned and that he would be providing humanitarian assistance to a devastated and radiation ridden country.  

A week prior to Britt's scheduled transfer date, he had a scheduled underway period, which at this point, is routine for us.  However, with the events of mother nature just a few days before, you can imagine how things changed quickly.  What isn't routine is the phone call you get an hour after you say "good-bye for now,"  a "good-bye for now" that was only supposed to last three days.  On the other end is Britt, not wanting to, but having to tell me "baby, we may be tasked with a new mission during this underway period."  What that translates to on the other end of the phone is "I won't be home as planned, and I don't know when I will be."  Not something a girl wants to hear, as she is looking forward to greet her man at the airport gates in only a matter of days.  With emotions ragging, I say "be safe, I love you and come home to me as quickly as possible."  Now, there were a few more words spoken, as I looked for answers that Britt just didn't have.   I learned a few things in that moment:  1) Just because I'm a Chief in the Navy doesn't make it any easier to hear this news on the other end of the phone, and 2) it was my job to be supportive and ensure that Britt knew he had loving arms to come home to.  That was the hardest thing that I've had to do.  As my mind raced for a few days, and as I prayed harder than I can remember ever praying, I was reminded of not only my own faith, but the faith I have in our military; we never blindly send our own into harms way and never act without a tested and tried plan of action.  

A few days later my prayers were answered, and Britt was safe back in Yokosuka and on a plane back to the States while our shipmates continued their mission, and still continue their mission today.   It is difficult for a Sailor to leave "the mission," but there is one thing I know for sure:  everything happens for a reason, and the Lord places us where we need to be, when we need to be there.  

So, the plans now start for our own mission......our future together.  

      Who wouldn't be all smiles in a candy store?  Stopped for a few sweet treats while visiting Colonial  Williamsburg this week.  

BACK TO THE GRIND

Not much to report this week.  We are both back to the grind and keeping busy with work and school.  Britt is underway again, so school started just in time for me to keep busy while he is out.  I keep reminding myself that it's only a few more weeks, so I'm praying they go by quickly.

Britt on the decks preparing to get underway

Tugs in place 

Watching the Steelers game with Britt on webcam.....

The man knows what to do in the kitchen.....

A FANTASTIC CLOSE TO 2010

Blessing have been flowing these past couple of weeks, and Britt and I have been so fortunate to be on the receiving end of them.  I am a firm believer that all things happen for a reason, and when you're patient in God's plan, love shines through even the hardest of times.  Though Britt's trip home over the holidays this year was an unscheduled one, it was a great one.  We were so busy it was crazy, but we got so much done....and had a wonderful time together while we accomplished it all.  We spent some amazing time with family and friends, creating the beginning of a lifetime of memories.  I don't know what it was about this holiday season, but love was flowing abundantly.

Even visiting with high school friends that I hadn't seen in years, it felt as if we had just seen each other yesterday.  Life has a tendency to take over and by the time we realize it, 10 or 15 years has passed us by.  These past couple of weeks have shown me that if we just stop and enjoy the moment that we are in, we will find something amazing that we probably more times that not, would miss......who wants that to happen?  I know I don't, at least I don't anymore.  I want to live each of my blessing and be able to pass them on.  More over, each time Britt and I are together, I realize how lucky I am.  Britt is an amazing man and I look forward to our many years together.

Ok, so I'm a bit sappy tonight, but I can't help myself....I have an amazing man in my life that I love beyond words, I have an amazing family, and loving and fun friends.  I am truly blessed beyond words and look forward to what 2011 brings with eagerness.

I met Britt at the Charlotte NC airport on the 15th of December and we were SC bound to spend time with his mom and family.  I flew to WA for a quick visit with my mom, dad, brother, and niece for Christmas and then flew back to SC for a few more days. While home I was able to catch up with my cousin Sarah, and two great high school friends.  Both of which were long overdue.  Britt drives up here to Norfolk on Wednesday, and then returns to Japan on the 9th.  After that, we are on the two month countdown to when Britt transfers to Norfolk for assignment to the USS WASP.

Being able to spend my birthday with Britt this year was a gift I am so thankful for.  We haven't always been able to be together when we want to be, but during 2010, things really worked out well for us.  This year is going to be even better!

Here are a few pictures of our great times over the past couple of weeks......

Car is loaded, and I'm on the road to Charlotte NC to pick up Britt.  I left town just in time to escape Norfolk's blizzard of 2010.

Britt and I at the airport.  So happy to see each other!

Britt and his new toy.....such a happy man!  :)

Swan Lake Fantasy of Lights.  The pictures really don't do the light displays justice, it was just beautiful.  

Swan Lake Fantasy of Lights.

Headed to Mom and Dad's for Christmas, and baked up a good number of treats, that I really didn't need to be eating.....oh, but they were oh so good!  Bailey was a great little helper, and is going to be great in the kitchen when she grows up.

Mom and I enjoyed a few toasts......and then a few more......

Bailey enjoying one of her MANY Christmas presents.  

......and modeling her new hat and scarf.....too cute!  

My brother Wesley and I.

Priceless!  Dad and Bailey enjoying their apple pie.

Out to dinner with Britt's family.  (L to R:  Britt, Wanda (Britt's step-mother), me, Tyler (Rhonda's son), Jami (Britt's sister),  Rhonda (Britt's sister) holding her son Dylan, Wyatt and Michael (Jami's husband).  We had a great time, but were missing Britt's oldest sister Ruth, her two children, along with Rhonda's husband John and daughter Brooke.

We took a drive to Columbia SC for the day and Britt took me to see the Williams-Brice Stadium, home of the South Carolina Gamecocks.  

Check this out.....these are used for tailgating.....how much fun would that be!  I'm game!

......and her sled wasn't the same again.  Sleds today just aren't made like they used to be......

 

IT'S OFFICIAL!!!

Britt's orders are in, and he'll be transferring to Norfolk in March!  Hallelujah!  I am so excited, I can't stand myself.  We are both really looking forward to being together after 4 years of long distance.  Thank you Lord for answered prayer!

Britt is underway again, and is keeping busy, as usual.  I have one semester of college down and 7 to go.  Slowly knocking them out, and I will be very happy when I'm done.  Britt is heading home next week and we'll spend a couple weeks with his family in SC.  We are really looking forward to our time together, and the opportunity to spend it with family.

Britt and I hope that everyone is enjoying their holiday season and that blessings surround you and your family.

Pattaya Thailand, one of Britt's port visits.

View from Britt's hotel room in Pattaya

My Man! xoxoxo

So, this is one of my Christmas creations.  Made some homemade hot chocolate and packaged it like this to give away as presents.  I love them!  

This was taken a couple weeks ago, just down the street from the house......I love this time of year, so pretty!  We even had snow flurries here last night.  It was very pretty to watch.  I'm glad there wasn't enough to stick though.

Keeping Busy

Britt is underway again, and is actually about 1/4 of the way through his deployment.  I have started school again, and am really kicking myself for not finishing school years ago.  After this semester, 7 more classes and I'll have my BA in Human Resources......so, the end is in sight!  With deployments and school, Britt and I are keeping ourselves busy and thankfully, time is going by pretty quickly.

Settled into Norfolk, I had my first visitors since mom was here and helped us move in.  Aunt Linda and Uncle Jim drove up for the night on their way back home and we had a great time catching up over a wonderful dinner.  It was so great to see them.

Just a few pictures from over the past few weeks......

Britt at the 2010 Chief Petty Officer's Pinning Ceremony, on board USS COWPENS, 16 Sep 10

During the 2010 Chief's Induction Season final day/night,15 Sep 10

All in a days work.  Britt and the crew working to bring some cargo on board that had fallen over the side of  another ship that is underway with them.

Britt made Senior Chief!!!!

What an exciting week for us!  The biggest excitement is that Britt made Senior Chief!  The results were released Friday, 16 July and Britt was just beside himself when he realized that he was selected.  He was pinned this past Wednesday and I am so proud of him.  The Navy made a great decision to advance one of it's best.

Mom and I left San Diego on Friday, 16 July, with Norfolk, VA as our destination.  I've learned that I'm not a very good traveler anymore when we are on a strict time schedule.  As I would've much rather have stopped along the way and enjoyed the sights, we didn't have time on our side to be able to do that, as the House Hold Goods delivery date was already scheduled, and we had to make sure we were there to meet all our stuff.  I'm glad mom was there to keep us on track.  We did make a stop in Memphis for dinner and a few beers on Beale street.  That was fun.  On one of our last nights on the road, we stayed with Ryan (my cousin) and his wife Susie in NC, which was great.  I haven't seen them in years and it was fun to catch up with them and the kids.  We really had a great time there.  Always nice to have family in the area.  Mom and I worked our butts off as the movers delivered all the furniture on Wednesday, 21 July.  In only about 5 hours, we had everything unpacked, unwrapped, stagged in the right room, and the movers were able to leave with all the packaging and empty boxes.  Then the real work began as we organized, put everything away and found the right place for everything.  By the time Friday came, we pretty much had everything done, including the curtains.  Wow, I think that was a record.  

Me, Mom, Sonja, Ryan, Alex and Ty (Not pictured:  Susie, the photographer).

A few pics from this week.

USS COWPENS and her crew.  This was their last day in dry dock.

The dry dock being filled so that she can float again and return to her mission.

From my award ceremony on Tuesday, 12 July.  It really has been a great tour because I've learned more that I ever thought I would, and had such a wonderful team along side me.  Thank you to all of you!  Now, on to the next adventure.