2009-2010: YEAR IN REVIEW....sort of.

It's been 18 months since my last post, so let me sum up some of the bigger events that have taken place in the Smith family during this time....

1. We had another baby. Yep, call us crazy, but we decided to have another baby so that Rachel would have a playmate and not feel like an only child! Our precious little boy, Aaron James, was born on June 10, 2009, and let me tell you, they ADORE one another. It was definitely one of our best decisions yet (those are rare, you know....smart decisions, so we revel in them when they happen).

2. We got our European adventure cut short, courtesy of the US Air Force, and in November 2009, received orders to Hurlbert Field, Florida. I could start a whole other blog on my experiences in the last six months here in northwest Florida....but I won't. I think I've reached my complaining quota for the year, and it's only August. More on that later....

3. Troy made Eagle Scout. Yahoo! He worked hard during his scouting years, and in December 2009, just before we left Germany, our first-born was awarded the highest rank that a scout can achieve. This was a major accomplishment for him, and yes, we've all earned bragging rights.

4. We finally did some serious traveling in Europe, with our last-minute/pre-PCS trips including Munich for Oktoberfest; Pisa and Rome, Italy for Thanksgiving (by the way, we have officially been added to the Pope's "Most Wanted" list and are banned from Vatican City until 2021); and Edinburgh, Scotland for Christmas 2009. All three trips were amazing, and reminiscing about them just makes me miss Germany even more.

5. We moved to Florida. As for whether or not we like it here, the jury is still out.

6. We got pregnant again. And in case you're wondering, YES, we do know what causes it. Baby (boy) #5 is due in November, so at this point, I have approximately 14 weeks of pregnancy left. God help me. Three babies in 3 1/2 years is just plain insane. What was I saying about "smart decisions?" Nevertheless, we are anxiously awaiting this little blessing's arrival. I just pray we have a name for him before he starts Kindergarten.

7. Troy got his learner's permit. It was about this time that I started taking Xanax. Coincidence? Nope.

This about covers all the big news over the past year or so. I could tell you countless humorous stories about our "adventures," and you probably wouldn't believe half of them.....my life is incredibly interesting. Sometimes stressful, always tiring, but never without a dull moment. And I wouldn't have it any other way, let me assure you. My goal for the school year is to start writing again, but please don't hold me to it. After all, with four kids and another on the way, I barely have time to brush my teeth. I know, I know....TMI.