MY Cousin

I usually don't do tributes to other people on this blog, because I really want to keep it as a diary to remember my crazy experiences while raising 3 awesome little people. That said, I have to make an exception as I just can't help myself from doing a little post in honor of MY cousin, John.

John joined the United States Air Force four years ago. He has been stationed a few different places in those years, including two different terms in Iraq. He's been back in the states for a while now, but is about to embark on another extreme adventure. John decided to extend his original commitment to the Air Force in order to continue to protect us for the next three years, while stationed in Japan.

I am so proud of John, for the United States hero who he is, and for the smart, responsible, interesting, respectful, hard working, big hearted man who he is becoming.

I am going to miss my cousin while he is a way, but I am grateful to him and to all of the other service men and women who are protecting our country. Because of all of them, I have the opportunity to raise my children in the peace and freedom of the United States of America.

A few pictures taken yesterday, during our last visit with John before his next adventure...

John and Liam~ From the looks of this picture, it appears that Liam thinks as much of John as I do.

John's mom, Elaine, with Connor~ Yep, Aunt Elaine is a big hit with the boys as well.
John's dad, Rick, who is not only willing to share his time with my family, but his lemonade as well. The boys stood in line, waiting for their turn with Uncle Rick (and lemonade!).

*Request* Whenever you are saying your prayers and have an opening slot, please include my cousin John, other cousin Patrick who is in the Marines, and all of the men and women of the United States services. Because of their bravery and dedication to our country, we are able to lives the lives we choose. God Bless!!!