one word ... NEW

New year, new state, new beginnings...
Just a few of the things we have going on.

2012 is the benchmark year we have been counting down to for years now. A little brief version of why is that Zack extended his Army contract in 2009 and 2012 is THAT year when he is out. Next month marks his 6th Army anniversary and he is finished with his service in April. We couldn't be happier that this chapter, while always in our hearts, will be coming to a close. Exactly 78 days until he is done forever. He has been through so much in his Army career and I am SO proud of him for his dedication and service.

2012 marking Zack getting out also means we are done in Texas. Even though I hated the humidity and the stupid army citations, I will miss Texas and the great friends there. I have a few wonderful friends who I will be friends with for life thanks to my time there. We have considered moving a few places but we are coming home. Bakersfield, although it's got many downfalls is home. We want to spend time together and since my job is here it is really the best option. I won't have to travel nearly as much, which for us is great! We are with our family and close enough to LA and plenty of beautiful beaches to be set. We found a house in December and we have been so excited for it but right now it's all up in the air. We don't exactly know where we will be but it is happening fast as we are moving our stuff here in 15 days. We are planning to video and take pictures of our journey. Should be interesting with a giant uhaul filled, my tahoe, us and our 2 dogs. Entertainment at it's finest.

2012 also marks when we both turn 25. He is excited to turn 25! I however am having mixed feelings. I'm not quite sure how to feel on that one...more to come I'm sure.

2012 marks our first big vacation by ourselves. We have taken a few nice family vacations but none by ourselves. AND when we chose to get married during his 2 week r&r from Iraq, we had limited time to ourselves as both of our families wanted to see him. We spent one additional day at the beach after our wedding so we've never really had a honeymoon. SO for Christmas we got most amazing, outrageous gift ever....a cruise. Not just any cruise but the Blake Shelton cruise to San Juan, St. Thomas, Tortola & Nassau. We get to see Blake, Trace Adkins, Jerrod Neimann, Justin Moore, Easton Corbin, Neil McCoy and Randy Houser. WE ARE PUMPED.

2012 is going to be our best yet. We have a lot of adjusting to do and a few sacrifices to get us both here but it is SO going to be worth it. I hate being away from Zack but I know I'm doing whats best for us being here to work and save money for when he is out. Some people can't understand our situation, but we do and we know it is perfect and only for a short time. We are so so so excited for all this year has for us! We wish you all the love, health and happiness in your 2012.