Looking Forward to 2013!

AJ and I were talking yesterday how great 2012 had been for our family. Yes, he spent a good portion overseas and away from us, but we received so many blessings. I applied and was accepted to USC. I have a wonderful internship in place for the next two semesters. Our boys are beautiful and healthy. They are full of so much life and personality. AJ came back from our 6th deployment unharmed and has eased back into our family and civilian life. Our relationship has truly grown and we have really tried to focus on what is important.

We attended the visitation and funeral for Sgt. Ty Ziegel the past few days and we spent the past few days with members of our Marine Corps family. My husband was able to see Marine that he hasn't seen in years, and it was so fun to see them all come together and the brotherhood they share. It always amazes me how Marines and Marine families can just pick up where they left of as if 8 years never had passed since the last time they had been together. I cherish our Marine friends and know they will always be a part of our lives.

Rainbow on the way to Ty Ziegel's visitation. 

One of my favorite Marine wives. 

On the way to the visitation, I just couldn't get my mind of his dear family and the sacrifices they have endured. In those moments, we noticed a small rainbow. The sky was completely clear with no moisture in sight. I immediately took a photo and posted it to his Mom's Facebook page. I loved that I was able to share with her this story at the visitation. My belief of a sign of hope and blessings for the family.

After attending Ty's funeral, I was left with the reminder to live each day to the fullest. Ty had so many chances to give up on life, but yet he chose to live when living was not the easy choice. He never complained of his war wounds and spent time encouraging others. The funeral and visitation were packed and there was not a dry eye in the room when we were told stories of his love for life and the constant bravery he showed. As the ceremony concluded a beautiful snow began to fall. The snow was not in the forecast and it continued through his funeral luncheon.

The park near Ty's funeral and visitation. 

Our midnight toast. 

Grape juice! 

We concluded the year with plenty of great food and drinks and our favorite couple friends. The kids minus Graycen made it to 12:00. I made it to 12:30. Two nights of partying, sure makes for a tired momma today. I am very ready to get back into a routine. A week left off of school for me and the kids. AJ heads back to work tomorrow. It has been so nice to have him around and again a blessing that he was off to help what was needed for the funeral.

Shot glass of grape juice! 

As I close, I wish you all a happy 2013. Thank you for following our story. I can't wait to share what 2013 has in store for our family!

Love him!