Jeff earned a long awaited promotion to Staff Sergeant, which now puts him in a retirement category. This means that in about 8 years he can have a full retirement from the Marine Corps (serving his 20 years total). I don't know about you but I think he looks much to young for the word retirement. I am so proud of him. He is truly one of the few and the proud.
The Marine Corps celebrates their birthday November 10th and my Dad's (Joe Rickard) birthday is on the 27th. So, this year Jeff and I took him to the Marine Corps Birthday Ball as his birthday gift and as a Thank you for his love and support. Looking good Dad -- you clean up nice.
The guest speaker at the Ball was "The Gunny", most of you know him as the Drill Instructor in Full Mental Jacket. My dad is a big fan and especially enjoys his show, MAIL CALL. We didn't tell my dad about him until we got there. Surprise!!
Our family took a little road trip up to Knot's Berry Farm. The weather was perfect and there were no long lines. Yes -- we were the orange family as we are always referred to when we choose to wear our family color. Hey it works.
Brandon and Jeff tackled all of the roller coasters.However, Joey braved his first roller coaster and it was a big one. Joey was such a good brother to his sister, Kalea as he waited in lines with her to ride the rides. He held her hand and gave her lots of reassurance that the ride would be fun not scary. Kalea played into this role well but as you can see when it was time to ride she no doubt enjoyed it! We all had so much fun!!
The next day we went to "The Block", which is a huge out door mall. It is so big it has a bowling alley and a VANS Skate park. The boys (yes including Jeff) spent their time skate boarding while Kalea and I shopped and had our nails done. FUN for all!!
I keep a gratitude journal... that's where I write 5 things that I am grateful for each and everyday. It keeps me focused on the abundance of blessings in my life.
1.I am grateful for good health (especially for Kalea).
2.I am grateful for my loving husband.
3.I am grateful for my smart and beautiful children.
4.I am grateful for my Dad & my sister, Becky Jo and for their unconditional love.
5.I am grateful for the re-connections I have made this year with old friends (hip hip horray for face book).
Hope each of you had a Thankful Thanksgiving and are enjoying the Christmas season. We love and miss you all.
