A Promotion

This past Tuesday was a special day for the Phelps duo: Parker received his first promotion! He is now a Lieutenant Junior Grade, or LTJG for short. I couldn't be prouder! This promotion marks 2 years since Parker commissioned into the Navy. Wait, what?! Has it really been that long? It seems like Parker was just commissioning and we were happily moving our little selves to our first duty station, Pensacola, Fl. So much has happened in the last 2 years, and we are so thankful for the opportunities the Navy has allowed us. We love to travel, we love to explore new places- really, we just love the adventure of it all.

I know some people don't enjoy the military life, and it's definitely not for everyone, but this lifestyle has given us so many wonderful opportunities. I look at some the close friends we have made over the last two years, literally spread out across the country, and can't imagine not having these wonderful people in our lives. The Navy's been a great thing for us these past 2 years, and with 2 more moves in 2014 alone, these next couple of years should be exciting!

The promotion ceremony was short and sweet- that's my kind of ceremony! Kidding, kind of. LtCol Shoeman (head of Parker's squadron) said a few words about Parker, had him recite the oath he took when he commissioned, and then pinned on the new ranks. LtCol Shoeman was really great about letting me be a part of the ceremony. He didn't have to do that at all, but he made sure I got to help pin the ranks on and had me sit front and center. He even took time out of the ceremony to address me directly and thank me for supporting Parker. I didn't need or deserve any special recognition, but it was really kind of him to let me feel a part of the ceremony. Parker said a few words at the end to thank his instructors for all of their hard work, and that was a wrap!

These first 2 years have been pretty fantastic. Getting to stand by Parker's side as he serves our country can only be described as a blessing. He loves this life, I love this life, and we can't wait to see what the future holds. 2 years down, ??? to go! Let's see what that LTJG life has in store for us :)