Thanks for checking in on us.

We began this blog a few months back as a means for us to record the actions of our daily life and marvel at how the children have grown.  It quickly became a place for grandparents to get a regular glimpse of their grandchildren.  It was a pilot project we had to first be sure I could follow through with on a routine basis -- now, it has grown to include you -- our family and friends we deeply care for.  In case you are ever wondering what we are up to, feel free to check in on us here.

We are aware just how obnoxious our family blog is.  So far, it has been "all our kids - all the time".  But we do plan on expanding our blog to contain pictures of our new surroundings when things slow down a bit.  In fact, the plan is to bring you an eyeful of many new places.  It is our intention to travel as much as we can once John feels established in his new position.

A year ago this time, John submitted his retirement paperwork, planning on going out with the same unit he began his career with 23 years ago.  Today, we find ourselves not in the Redstone or Rock Island Arsenal areas where we wished to settle down, but still in the Army and in Germany!  John has been busy in-processing since we arrived one month ago and expects to delve into his new duties this week.  We both agree this job is a fantastic opportunity for us.

Also this week, we move out of our fancy lodging and into our home over the next three years.  We have been living the life in a spotless hotel with a super staff, free breakfast, housekeeping, and within walking distance to the things we need.  But we have been living out of suitcases since we sold the house last April, and our two year old has long exhausted the two places she has to tuck away when we hide-and-go-seek.

Housing was a difficult decision for us, and we took a lot of time to fully research all of our options here.  Before we left the States, I will admit: I was determined to live on post on this tour.  It seemed fitting to live in an American community, footsteps from our doctor, the commissary, the playgrounds, the playgroups, and with dynamic Stuttgart just outside our gate.  But instead what we have decided will be even more ideal for our family is a cozy place in the country.

We will be living in a German town with German neighbors.  We feel we have a far better shot at learning the language and the culture this way.  We will be in a beautiful area, minutes from the Black Forest.  If you have visited Europe, then you know that with public transportation we are minutes to the big city as well.  In fact, we are so centrally located that a daytrip to France or Switzerland is an easy option for us.  Our new community has plenty of greenways and trails, and the kids and I expect to be outdoors a lot.  Our landlord has been very accomodating, offering to show John the quickest routes to work and inviting us over for an authentic Swabian dinner.  The house has everything we were looking for to include a large playroom for the babes and a small guest suite...

We are taking visitors!  Our door is always open!

It is going to be a great year, everyone!  From our family to yours, we wish you a very happy and healthy new year!