Awww Man

That is what my one year old said when I told her daddy was going to be leaving for a little while.

We said "see you soon" to Chase today, we never say bye...thats such a final word. It was hard this time watching him with Ava but as always, I had this huge feeling of pride. Today being Veterans Day, I couldnt help but think of how important his job is. Without guys like him, we wouldnt have all that we have. I am very lucky that we do have a true Hero in our family. Sometimes I wish it wasnt him that has to go, but I always stop to think how selfish that is of me. I am truly honored to be married to a man that puts his country first, who is willing to risk his life to protect ours. So thank you to my wonderful husband. You are an amazing dad and we wouldnt know what to do without you. But most importantly, Thank you for being an amazing Marine. You kick butt at your job and you truly are a hero. Please pray for everyone in 2/3 as they travel and prepare to take on their mission. We hope they get in and do their job and get back home safely.

Happy Veterans Day to all the service members everywhere, past and present. I thank you from the bottom of my heart!

A day at the park

Ava and I have stayed in for the past 3 days due to rainy weather. This afternoon it stopped raining and we decided to go to the library. Not a good place to take a kid who has been cooped up for a few days. The park was our next stop. It was nice and overcast outside and made for a really cool park visit.

We had a very good time!

BYE

That's Sgt. Daddy to You!!

Yep that's right. After what felt like forever, Chase picked up Sgt. Today! (Sorry, no new addition to our family) We are so proud of him. He got promoted meritoriously and his CO made an awesome speech about him! I pinned his new rank on, which I was so honored to do, and little Ava watched as it all happened. She was very good! Here are some pictures of our amazing day. Chase said we couldn't talk about it until it happened or we would jinx it, so sorry to all for the wait! Congrats Hunny!!! We are so proud of all that you have accomplished in your career already and stand behind you as you continue to serve and protect our country! Thanks for everything you do at work and at home. You are an amazing dad and husband and we love you so much!

Love, Crystal and Ava

Chase saluting the CO before he reads his promotion warrant

Out with the old, and in with the new!

Putting his new chevrons on...SGT BABY!!

Chases speech to the company.

Saluting the CO again, now as a Sgt.

Showing Ava, they are both so proud!

Sgt. Alexanian

And thats a wrap. Thanks to everyone for all the support that you have given Chase, and us as a family, through his career so far. He really couldn't have done this without all of y'all!

Something Special

Tomorrow something special is happening! Hmm.....you are wondering... Check back tomorrow to see what it is! (with pictures) We have been waiting and waiting for this. aghhhhh Im so excited!!

A Halloween Costume

"Ava will never wear a store bought costume"

What was I thinking? You should never say things like that! I did make her costume this year. I had great intentions of starting early and finishing early but the Fall Festival was Friday and I was finishing her costume an hour before we had to leave. Now anyone who knows me, knows that nothing gets done on time but that was really really pushing it. It turned out great and only cost about 20 bucks! I made a white tutu and hand sewed black faux fur spots and a tail. I bought a $3.00 onesie at target and machine sewed more spots on the top half of that. I made a set of puppy ears and attatched them to a black goodies headband. I added a little red bow to one of the ears of course. It had to be known she was a girl puppy....if the tutu didnt give it away! My favorite part of the whole costume is her collar. It is made out of felt and glitter paint. It made the outfit so complete. Maybe Ill start earlier next year!

Since When Did She Grow Up??

It happened overnight I think. She woke up and is a big girl now. She has long hair, talks in sentences (sometimes) and loves to do things her way. It does make me sad, but in a small way makes me very proud. She is so smart and creative and Im so happy she's my daughter!

Ohh how I love pirates!

Today thanks to our good new friend Denise (who shares all the great things to do in Hawaii with us) we are going to the movie set of Pirates of the Caribbean 4! Yep thats right....Johnny Depp! If all pirates were that cute we would buy a ship and set out to sea....well in my dreams right! They are filming in the Heeia Kia Boat Harbor right down the street. I can't wait to see that big beautiful pirate ship. eeeek! Hope its still there this morning or we are gonna have to drive all over the island looking for it. My camera went in by bag to Atlanta already so my phone will have to take pictures. Bummer! Just wanted to share my excitement about that! Jealous...I know!