Legally and Happily Separated:

Me and the Army, that is.

My last drill was in November and we took these pics that same Sunday.
However, because of how the Army works, we did not get official papers until late January.

"Parents," said Harry, "shouldn't leave their kids unless they have to."

And now I won't have to.

Here's our clan.

See what happens when I'm not home for the weekend? One naked child and one child in mismatched pink clothing?

My Mommy packed my bag when I shipped off for basic training. They gave us a list and I got what was on that list and nothing more. I was the only one in my barracks that didn't have to throw a bunch of stuff away. My Mommy can follow directions.

I loved being in the Army and I loved having gone through basic training. My only suggestion to anyone about to enter the military is this:

See how short and cute and stylish my hair is in the photo below?
DO NOT CUT YOUR HAIR SHORT AND CUTE FOR ANY MILITARY TRAINING OR DEPLOYMENT!
There will not be showers, or haircuts, or hair products. Long and pulled back is the way to go.
Just prior to basic training, I had cut my hair to a short style, similar to what I have below. 11 weeks without a haircut is a great inconvenience.
I did the same thing when I was mobilized in 2003--NOT SMART.
Just wear it long and pull it back.

Me and the SO HAPPY hubs. He's been getting up with the kids every drill Saturday, after working until the wee hours of the morning, and then doing it again Sunday.
Plus, he doesn't like that I can do more push ups than him--but that will still not change. I am a push up machine.

I love group photos. F took this one.

And one last one of me, in my uniform.

A glamor shot, to say the least.