Something Greater Than Yourself

Since joining the Air National Guard in November of 2013, I haven't had a moment of regret. In fact, it's one of the best decisions I could have ever made for myself, my family, and my future.

There's something amazing about the transformation that takes place when you put on the uniform. There's a huge sense of overwhelming pride... of gratitude... of honor. To think about all who came before you and all who have given up so much to defend their country—it's truly something so big that I'm so honored to be a part of.

I feel this way whether I'm in or out of uniform. Now that I'm a military member, I hold myself to a higher standard. I not only show integrity, courtesy, respect, and service during drill weekend, but it's expected of me 24/7. And that's a standard that I am proud to uphold.

When you're a part of something so big, something so much greater than yourself, saying that "it's an honor" just doesn't do it justice. It's real. I have never been so proud to be an American, a member of the Idaho Air National Guard, or a citizen who has the opportunity to serve our country. And getting to do it alongside my husband? That's the icing on the cake.

I am an American Airman. What an honor.

Happy 2015!

To celebrate New Year's Eve, we watched the Boise State Broncos barely eke out a victory over the Arizona Wildcats in the Fiesta Bowl. And of course, I was cheering for my Broncos. BOISEEE! STAAATE! We celebrated the three-time Fiesta Bowl champions (I was a BSU cheerleader and was on the field at the first go-around in 2007) with a fiesta party, complete with fajitas, tacos, dips, and salsas to rival the best Mexican spreads. And I cooked and prepared the meal—which was a victory in itself! After the game, we battled it out over a couple rounds of Trivial Pursuit, Daniel's mom taking the cake each time. What a stinker! We turned in, like we always do, around 11:00pm. What bums we are!

Last year, my big resolution was to grow as a person. I'm pretty sure I can check that one off my list after all the craziness that ensued during 2014. And as far as a resolution this year? RELAX—in every aspect. While good stress is a good thing, too much of it can be a bad thing. And I had a lot of it last year and didn't always handle it as I should have. So this year I just want to let it go. I want to enjoy things instead of always being on the go. I want to be more easy-going at home. I want to fly under the high-pressure radar that seems to be so common these days. I just want to relax. So I will.

As 2014 was beginning, I was anticipating lots of change with the Air Guard, my job, and my life with Daniel. I was convinced I was going to become a mom last year. But this year? I'm just not sure. I have no idea what lies ahead except for some definite consistency compared to last year. So 2015, no matter what you have in store for me, I won't say I'm ready, but I'm going to take it as it comes. Let's do it.

Past Happy New Year posts: 2012 │ 2013 │ 2014