Missouri so far

My Mom harassed me for not posting pictures of the kids. So be prepared. We're a month in and we really love Missouri. Everyone keeps telling us that this is one of their least favorite places they've been stationed and I smile and nod and think I'm so glad I don't know any different. I've discovered aside from missing a Costco and Target desperately I can handle a small town. I've grown out of my desire to do it permanently but for now it's a great little pit stop. It's so pretty with all the trees that I almost can ignore the bugs!

In other news David's actually working in the clinic right now and loves it. He came home the first day and said the assistants do everything and I'm not supposed to even help them clean up. That's a far cry away from working at Baylor with no assistant and doing all of his own prep and clean up. I can see why he's still a little shell shocked.

Today we went to my brother Ben's Change of Command. He made it sound like no big deal when he invited us but it was a HUGE deal. Very cool to see his whole command stand in formation and listen to him speak. Anyway, Ben is a stud and once again it made me grateful we're all at this base together so we get to participate in this fun stuff. It made me so proud that that was my brother up there taking charge of a whole company of engineers.

Onto the pictures...

Mostly my kids look like this. Ashton dressed as or pretending to be a super hero and Mallie climbing something. And one is without clothing. Why is it so hard to keep children dressed while you're inside?

Hannah looking so old. I'm not sure if it's the pig tails or the no pants that gets me.

David in uniform. I love it!!

Ben's the one on the left under the cool arches they made with the drill things.

Ben's company saluting him.

I still think it's cool seeing tanks everywhere. And I'm pretty sure an army base is heaven to any little boy. Ashton still loves to talk about all the different tanks and trucks driving around.

After the ceremony I looked back at the kids and thought I want to remember this. I hate buckling car seats but I'm sure one day I'll look back and not even remember them lined up in their seats.

On the deck. Mallie standing up. Hannah dumping water on her. Ashton feeling super cool in his sunglasses. Hannah was so thrilled to have a pair again. Thanks Mom!

So in short we're happy. The news about our friend Rob has given us a huge reality check. Life is fragile and we need to appreciate every moment.