Smarties

Ok, so I'm not really doing an entire post like you might think on Smarties the candy. (Though they are quite good and therefore do deserve a moment of recognition since this post appears to be named after them.)


I am talking about just one person or "smartie" (and I mean that in a good way not in a Jr. High name calling way).

Today I came from an all day seminar that my company sent me to to learn more about some of the laws that I work worth on a daily basis as a Benefits Administrator in the HR department. After finishing this 7+ hour seminar I received a "certificate of continued education" for completion in the one day training. But really should a receive such a honor for doing absolutely nothing? (I mean I simply wrote down what the instructor said and he even gave everyone the answers to the tests/exercises after each completed section).

So no, the "Smartie" here is definitely not me. The "Smartie" that I want to recognize is non other then my Mom.


Just a few weeks ago my mom completed her Masters program in teaching. There was blood, sweat, and tears involved in the process I'm sure if you were to ask her; and plenty of tests and papers that she was not given the answers to. However, on top of working full time as a teacher she plunged in and decided to become a student herself once again. She even gave up her longed for summer days of freedom to work on homework and lots of papers...now that is dedication. It has all paid off however and now she is the proud recipient of a Masters degree. What a great mom I have who has shown, and continue to show, a great dedication to all she is involved in and a great work ethic.

CONGRATULATIONS MOM! You truly are the "Smartie" here.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNA !

Unbelievable that Anna, whom I call my little sister (since she is my younger sister), is turning 20 today. I am so lucky to have her in my family and so very proud of all her hard work and dedication to the things that she is involved in. Her dedication to school and hard work ethic are a good example to me. She is a great sister and often makes me laugh.

I wish you lived closer Anna so we could spend time with you and celebrate with you in person on special days like today. We miss you and hope your birthday is special.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

3 Years and counting

Today Tyler and I celebrated our 3 year Anniversary. Hard to believe that it has already been 3 years. We have lots of friends and family who have gotten married the past few months and even more getting married in the next few months. It all brings back great memories of our wedding day.

What is even harder for me to believe is that I have lived up here in AK now for 3 years and 3 months, man the years go by fast. But I'm ready for my 4th winter and for many more great years with Tyler.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TY


Where Tyler and I got engaged



Our Wedding Sept. 3, 2005


Summer 2007


A few months ago in Africa 2008