I'm still on the fence about whether or not John's deployment has helped me to grow in patience (ok, yes I think it has), but I am confident that I've become very good at keeping myself busy with projects and family/friend activities. As you can see below, my parents' garage was recently converted into a table number production line as Dad helped me to create mini chalkboards (what a sport he is) for the reception tables. I love a crafty project, and I've had quite a bit of fun working on such wedding details while John has been away. Additionally, and as usual, I've kept busy with family and friends. Recent weekends have allowed me the privilege of meeting up with Laura and Derek during their visit to So Cal and a trip to the Grammy Museum in LA with Mom (yes the included picture is my best attempt at a self-portrait of us). I also finally got to take Dad on his surprise father-daughter outing to celebrate his birthday and retirement. What did we do? Hot air ballooning, of course! It's something I've always wanted to do with him and since the occasion and a Groupon presented itself (and because I'm leaving the country) I decided that now was a good time. As you can see, the burners were quite hot and in close proximity to our heads, yet we donned our hats and hat a fabulous time floating over Temecula! John's return is not too far off now, and I am eagerly anticipating is homecoming and the chance to show him in person everything I've accomplished in his absence :-).
