Shhh...Don't Tell Tyler

Steve went to work thinking it was just an ordinary work day, however he soon found out that it was a day off for Labor Day. Unfortunately for Tyler, school is still in session today. We hardly ever get to go anywhere just the two of us, so we took advantage and went for burgers at our favorite burger place here in Bahrain and then afterwards, we went for some chocolate desserts.

For Nanny

Tyler wanted me to video tape him playing a song especially for Nanny.

First Day of Third Grade

Tyler got up bright and early this morning eager to start the third grade. He was more than excited to see his friends again. After taking a few photos this morning, we waited for the bus to arrive at the our gate. Tyler jumped aboard the bus to head to school and then Dad and I also did the same. We actually passed the bus on the way to school and saw Tyler looking out the window. We attended the morning greeting at the school hall where all the students and faculty gathered. As soon as Tyler saw us, he ran up and told us that he had seen us too. One of Tyler's best friends, Dylan, was already there and so Tyler sat beside him. They are in the same class together this year. The gathering lasted about 15 minutes and then the students followed their teachers to finally start the day.
Tyler came home so happy. He said he had an awesome first day. He loves his new teacher and the kids in the class. He said they even got to lay on the floor to work on a poster project. This is going to be a pretty good year. A great way to end our tour here in Bahrain.

Meet the Teacher

Tyler was assigned to Ms. Jensvold this year for third grade. We attended Meet the Teacher, brought our supplies in for the year, and saw where Tyler's desk is in the classroom. Ms. Jensvold seemed very pleasant and assured us that she has a very relaxed classroom atmosphere. The children can sit or lay on the floor if they wish while completing their assignments in class. And she said homework is important, but she believes family time is priority so she only assigns about thirty minutes each night. This is the total opposite from what we had last year. It's going to be a great relaxed year!! All the parents from last year, including Steve and I are very relieved and happy to hear this.

Happy 12th Anniversary to us!!

We've been through so much during our 12 years of marriage. Six moves, five deployments (and TAD trips), the birth of our son, and visits to the most amazing places. It wasn't always easy(especially during deployments) but I wouldn't have changed a thing. It made us stronger and realize how blessed we are to have found one another. I love you with every bit of my heart, Steve Smith. You are my gift from God. Thank you for the best 12 years of my life. It only keeps getting better. ♥

Last day of Bowling Camp

Birthday Time

We celebrated my birthday the day before since Steve's boss surprised him with the day off. Steve took Tyler and I out for lunch at one of my favorite restaurants, Le Chocolat.

Then we came home, Tyler and Steve went into the playroom and shut the door. I saw this note on the door:

After awhile, they came out and presented me with this beautiful poster. They all signed it with lovely birthday wishes. The poster even glows to the dark! LOL

Then Tyler surprised me with a snack tray he made along with a fruit and yogurt treat, he also made.

To top off my special day, Tyler gave me a massage "because I worked hard all last year". Sooo sweet!!!

11 Months

With mixed emotions, we found out that Steve did not get promoted and hence, we will be retiring from the Navy in 11 months. With only a quota of eight people out of a few hundred in his rate, it was very difficult to achieve. Steve only knew one of the selected on the list, and that person actually had gotten into trouble just a couple of years ago. It left us shaking our heads, yet again trying to figure out how they decide on the chosen ones. It's OK though, the news actually left us with a sense of a weight being lifted off our shoulders. We now know we can finally focus on our future plans. As always, I am so very proud of my husband. Dedicating 20 years of his life to the service with such professionalism, hard work, and determination. Now is the time to direct our focus on us and our family. We are looking forward to starting our new part of our lives together. Here's to the future, OUR future!! :)