Shenyang

My extremely talented husband spent an entire month in China. He worked for the US Consulate in Shenyang (northern China). When he first arrived in China he got to spend a few days exploring Beijing.

We originally thought I would be able to join him in China for a few weeks but when morning/all day sickness set in I decided it would be better for everyone involved in I stayed home. But, my Sainted Mother-in-Law got to go visit her son and see China! The two of them had a great time!

The red dot standing on the Great Wall of China is my Mother-in-Law!

The husband had a great time in China! He cannot wait to go back and I cannot wait to go!

First Comes...

Then Comes...

THEN COMES...

08.25.12

We are so excited! Thank you to everyone who has kept us in your thoughts and prayers. We couldn't be happier. Baby is doing great! I can hardly believe how well things are going.

Birthday Wishes

My amazing husband is away. Today is his Birthday.

Good thing he is having a BLAST in CHINA!

I took this picture on the morning he left. He was so excited!

Have fun in China! I love you! Happy Birthday!

Nebraska

My undergraduate degree was a lot of fun (International Studies). The classes were interesting and they introduced me to topics I really care about (International Health). Unfortunately, the degree itself has not lead to the type of job I would love. I always knew I would need a graduate degree to do what I want.

After settling in Tucson I started looking into my graduate school options. I decided I needed an online program since we aren't sure how long we'll be here and we have no idea where we'll end up next.

After looking at a lot of programs, I found the University of Nebraska at Omaha's MPA program. The classes are exactly the same for online students as in the classroom. In fact, online students fill a seat in the actual classroom when registering. And the program is ranked in the top 10% of all MPA programs (online or not)!

At the end of December I got the exciting news that I had been accepted as an online student! Luke and I planned a quick trip to Omaha at the beginning of January to meet the professors, my advisor, and attend orientation. We took a lot of pictures... but I can't find my camera. So, here is a picture from the internet...

Since we visited in January it was not this sunny or green.

I started classes on Monday. So far so good.

I'm nervous about starting school again, but since Luke already has 2 Master's Degrees I need to get started. I can't let him get too far ahead of me.

IDAHO!

Last week Luke and I left sunny Tucson, Arizona and spent some time in Idaho. That's right... Idaho. Before you think we're crazy for leaving flip flop weather for arctic chill I should tell you - WE HAD A BLAST! Ok, we could have done without the freezing weather but we had a great time!

We went to Idaho, 'All because two people fell in love (isn't that wonderfully cheesy)'.

But I'm not talking about the bride and groom, whose beautiful sealing and reception we attended, I'm talking about Luke and one of his best friends Brandon (the groom). These two boys met at the Academy and can't get enough of each other. Brandon's Dad says they "giggle like sisters" when they get together. It's true.

We were so excited to be there for Brandon and Whitney!

Weddings are so fun! Congratulations Brandon and Whitney!

Good Things...

Did you know me and my Mom's birthdays are only 4 days apart! 4 days! Isn't that AWESOME! We think so. This year that meant we got to celebrate them together when she came out to visit at the beginning of November.

She saw our house for the first time, we went shopping, we spray painted stuff, we ate a super fancy amazing gelato birthday cake. We watched two of our favorite shows, Modern Family and Chuck. We took the puppy on walks to look at cactus. We shopped some more. I introduced her to pinterest. We made crafty plans for Christmas. Before I knew it the week was up and Mom had to go home. Lame.

Her visit was really, really good. I am so glad she came.

You may have noticed we have a blog, but we do not have one of these...

Weird, right?

For 18 months we have been trying to flag down this guy...

But he has not stopped by our house yet.

So, while we pray and want and wish for one of these...

(Your prayers for us would be MUCH appreciated)

I will try to keep this blog updated with the things we are doing, the good things going on in our lives. Because while there are some pretty rotten days and long depressing nights, there are good days and exciting things going on. You know, in between the infertility appointments. I won't update you about the infertility appointments. That would be weird.

We are so grateful for our family and friends that have been so supportive and sweet during this difficult time. Please continue to keep us in your prayers.