Saturday, December 31, 2016

And then... There's the Bellagio Gardens

When in Vegas, the Bellagio Gardens
should be a "must-see" on your trip agenda.




A Winter Wonderland!




Take a closer look at this huge tree.
There is a very tall ladder with an elf working his charms.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care.




A beautiful afternoon spent with family.

Take care,
~Natalie

Thursday, December 29, 2016

We Are So Proud of our Graduate ~A Small Peek into Where He Spent the Last Six Months

Our Son-in-Law is such a hard working young man.
This 6 month school term was rigorous,
probably the most difficult training he has mastered.

Nick was able to secure base passes for his family,
however, no photos were allowed in many areas.
But, here he is in their classroom/office area...


Of the 100+ graduates,
there were only 4 pilots.

We all thoroughly enjoyed hearing about 
some of Nick's activities.

And so happy to celebrate his accomplishments.

Take care,
~Natalie

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

When in Vegas...

Vegas in December is a dream vacation.
While we were there to celebrate a graduation with Nick and Amy,
there were plenty of activities to occupy our spare time.

Our departure was at 5:05 a.m.
It seemed like the middle of the night when we got to the airport!

Despite the extra time spent de-icing our plane,
we made our connection in Minneapolis.

And, our luggage also got on the correct flight!

Then before we knew it, we were in our rental car,
heading toward the Strip.

With a little help from Garmin,
and a lot of help from Google Maps,
We figured out where we needed to go.

Since Nick was still on duty and spending his time 
with end of course assignments,
We enjoyed the day with Amy.
Yes, we had lunch at a Buffalo Wild Wings 
and ran errands at Target.
(Just like home!)


Back on the Strip,
the whole family stayed at the Flamingo...

where, there are flamingos, of course.

Here's a view of the tropical habitat from our room.

We enjoyed mother/daughter pedicures...

...and shopping at the Premium Outlet Mall.
It was chilly for Vegas, but compared to the record setting lows at home,
it was nice to walk around in a light jacket 
to find those last minute Christmas gifts.

Hubby and I loved the time we spent with our daughter
before they head back over seas.
And, Nick was able to finish 
his final tasks at the Air Force Base.

More on that later...

Take care,
~Natalie

Sunday, December 25, 2016

Merry Christmas to All ~The Highlight of our December ~~Congratulations to Nicholas

Christmas Greetings to all our Family & Friends.
We were honored to spend time celebrating with these two 
on Nick's tremendous accomplishment.



Nick spent the last six months in Weapons School,
A very rigorous program including academics and flying.
And now it was time for awards and recognition.


There were over 1300 in attendance at this formal event,
however, our attention was on these two.

It was a formal dinner, indeed.

Here's Nick with his classmates...

Amy with the other wives...

and, here they are, all reunited.

We were seated with Nick's father, aunt and uncle, 
siblings and their spouses.
Such a delightful group to share dinner and table conversation.

Amy and Nick with his Commander and wife.

And then, it was time for graduation.
There's Nick, the 5th from the right, under the speaker.



Congratulations, Nick.
We are so very proud of you.

The perfect ending to a wonderful celebration.

Treasure the time you spend with your family.
Merry Christmas, everyone.

Take care,
~Natalie

Road Trip ~Day Three ~Burger Battle ~Sweet Shopping Highlights

Our last full travel day took us through four states… Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Including some Big Bridges over some Big ...