Rolling Thunder 2015

28 years ago, a mass ride occurred in D.C. in protest of the soldiers left behind in Vietnam. Since that initial ride, a yearly parade of motorcycles ridden by veterans and family members of soldiers has grown and grown. This year, Bubba and I were just 2 out of 1 and a half million riders that participated in what is now known as Rolling Thunder. And it sounded just like what it's called.

If you ever get the chance, go to Washington D.C. the day before Memorial Day. You may catch a portion of the almost endless parade. This year the bikes kept coming for 4 and a half hours and the ride itself takes 20-30 minutes. It was so inspiring to see everyone in attendance with one purpose. To support our troops. I was surprised by how many times I was simply overcome with emotion. We got to meet so many inspiring veterans, and family members of soldiers that have recently passed away. We even saw and met with a few former POW's. It was a very moving and powerful day.

There were no protests in DC as we rode. Just supportive onlookers waving at the motorcycles. Military men saluted as we rode by. And honestly that entire experience made me feel proud to be an American.

Also this guy was adorable...

After riding the route, we walked around the mall to see the monuments.

 We found Bubba's grandpa's name on the Vietnam Memorial

As we left D.C. the parade was winding down. These men held this position for the entire rally. 5 hours. That is dedication, discipline, and respect for our troops. 

I love this country and I love those men and women who sacrifice their time, families, and sometimes their lives so that I can live as a free American citizen. A phrase we saw over and over today puts it best: "All gave some, some gave all." God bless the USA.

Turning The Page

We are moving!

It's official! We are going to take a year before the grad school whirlwind and work. And where are we working??? Ladies and gents...we are moving...

...to...

ARIZONA!!

We are thrilled to say the least. We are so excited to be closer to our friends and family on the Western side of the country. 

And we've heard from some that we've already told. People have commented variations of the obvious:

"Oh! It's gonna be hot!"

True. But after 4+ years of heat and humidity, I say bring it on. Also, chances of being snowed in are about never. 

I will miss Virginia though. This has been an important place for us. This is where we met and fell in love. 

This was where our first apartment was. And our second. 

This is where we graduated from college. 

This is where we first called home as a family.

We are so grateful for the friendships and ties that we've been able to create and form here. There is something so special about this place and I'm grateful to know that we've built a life here and made memories that we will cherish for a long long time.