Well we did it! We finally managed to get family pictures taken. It was a bittersweet family portrait as I find myself wondering if it will ever look the same. Our lives are changing so very quickly. We are once again experiencing firsts with our children. This was the first Christmas we decorated our tree without Kristina. It was a hard day for me I admit! It didn't seem complete but I realize that we are on another part of our journey with Kristina. Being there for here as she discovers the pressures that come with being an adult and having to support yourself. I also think toward the future and know that next year will be very different as well. I'm not sure where we will be living but I do know that we will be on a military base somewhere and my heart is happy with that. There is a kinship among the families that serve in the armed forces that can not fully be explained. I'm not sure if Mark will be with us next Christmas or if he will find himself in the desert but one thing I am assured of is that God is with us no matter where we go. So this Christmas as we live out transition and say good-bye to the things we have known I thank God that he always has us in his care and that he always surrounds us with people to love and who love us in return. Thank you Father for your constant love and care.