Back to Blogging, Part II

May 2012 - What an incredible, unforgettable time in our lives! Phase III of pilot training came to a close with Assignment Night on May 5. While we were both very excited and a little nervous, we were blessed with peace as we trusted that God was going to take us where he wanted us. Our top three choices were C-5's to Dover, C-21's to Scott, and C-17's to Travis... but we had a feeling Joel was going to have to be a FAIP. (First Assignment Intructor Pilot, i.e. staying in Columbus for three more years and teaching students how to fly.) We were both thrilled and a little emotional when we saw that C-5 come up next to Joel's name, and even more so when it was followed by the words, "Dover AFB, DE!" It felt like we hugged each other for at least ten minutes, as I was openly crying and Joel was trying to pretend like he wasn't! Everyone started saying, "Kiss her! Kiss her!" And so he did. It was such an awesome moment for us both. Honestly, there was a point in our marriage where I would have been devastated if our next assignment wasn't to the East Coast. But God has been faithful to us through so much, and I was able to truly mean it when I told Joel on the morning of May 5, "Where you go, I'll go too. Always." Praise the Lord for giving us our hearts' desire!



Two weeks later, on May 18, was SUPT Class 12-09's graduation day. We were so thankful to have both of our families there to support us and celebrate with us. Pinning on Joel's wing was another moment that we'll never forget. I was so over-whelmed with pride and love for him. Not only did he complete pilot training, but he finished at the top of his class!

(Yes, I realize that I am standing slightly in front of his new wings, but I HAD to stand on that side... it's my good side!)

(Later that night, at the graduation banquet, with our friend Michael.)


One week later, on May 25, I was blessed with the opportunity to go to my dear friend Janie's college graduation from the University of Delaware. She's one of those rare friends who I can go a year or more without seeing, and then pick up right where we left off - we always have something to talk about! I am so looking forward to living in the same state as her!

The next day, we woke up to Mississippi-like heat in Pennsylvania, just in time to do outdoor pictures for my brother's wedding. It was a beautiful, God-honoring day, and Joel and I were so thankful to be a part of it. Timmy is the best big brother anyone could ever hope for, and it brings me so much joy to know that he has found his helper in Nicole!

(The bride-to-be getting ready!)


As a bonus tidbit of information, for those of you who haven't heard, Joel and I purchased our first home together in Dover on May 30!


The following weekend we celebrated Joel's beautiful sister Hannah and sweet brother Noah's graduation from community college in Maryland. We love them so much and are very proud of both of them! Before we got married, I didn't think that anyone could be as much of a brother to me as Timmy is, and now I am so blessed to treasure each of Joel's siblings as my own.


Up next, the conclusion of this back-to-blogging special: June 2012! :)