There is much to discuss since I haven't been posting regular updates. Hopefully, I won't leave anything out.

In January, Jen's friend Brandi gave birth to a little boy. This was her first child and we couldn't be happier for her.

In February, we were able to travel down to Memphis, TN to see our good friends, Jon, Anne and their son Jacob. It was our first time meeting Jacob and was long over due. Anne and Jon are expecting their second child in September. This trip was our first time in Memphis. We were able to visit several of the must-see features in Memphis.

Our trip included a visit to the Peabody Memphis Hotel to watch the ducks march in. The hotel has a long tradition of keeping live ducks in the hotel fountain. The ducks are marched in each morning and taken back out at the end of the day. This ritual dates back to a prank played by the hotel manager along with his hunting buddy back in 1932. The two had enjoyed a bit too much whiskey and decided to place their live decoy ducks in the fountain and the guests were delighted. We also were able to see Beale Street. The visit to the Childrens Museum of Memphis was also a real treat. CMOM had numerous interactive exhibits based on themes such as weather, air travel, shopping, construction, grocery stores. Holden had a great time at the musuem.


I am currently in Knoxville TN attending the Airman Leadership School. The course is five weeks. I will be returning at the end of March. Prior to my departure, Holden and I got to put the fishing rod he got for Christmas to use. Unfortunately the fish weren't biting but we were able to go out on several occassions to the Lions Club Park. So far, we've only caught some leaves but we're hoping to catch some fish this Spring.


Jen's Mom flew down to visit in mid-March. After spending a week in Missouri, they all drove up to Indiana for a week in Goshen. It was especially nice since her brother, Justin, and his family were also in town to visit. Holden had a great time playing with his cousins, Gavin and Kaiden, not to mention chasing Aunt Jamie's toy collie around the house. Justin and Collen are currently expecting a son in July.

It seems that nearly everyone is expecting this year, I've mentioned several already. I should say that Jen is not pregnant. But we would like extend our best wishes to those who are:
Kristina & Steve Rozek, who are expecting a girl in August
Leigh Ann & Nabeel Ahmed, who are also expecting in August
Jen's friend Stephanie (in Rolla), who is expecting her second child in October

We hope everyone is well. I can't wait to return home and get back to my family. Holden and I have some bluegill and sunfish to catch.
-Shawn