Captain!

A few weeks ago, Erick was promoted to captain. I am so very proud of my husband for all his hard work. He is a great man, a wonderful husband, and a dedicated soldier.

I want to thank Mary Anne and De'Shane for taking pictures of the promotion ceremony. I also want to thank Mary Anne for taking photos of my cute family afterward. I just love them! Take a look:

Standing in front of a crowded room:

LTC Lindsay said some kind words about Erick and the family:

LT Tally read his promotion orders while the soldiers stood at attention:

LTC Lindsay removed Erick's lieutenant rank and gave me the honor of placing Erick's captain rank on his uniform:

Traditionally, the person who places the rank on the uniform also punches the soldier in the chest to "make it stick." I decided to let the kids do the honors in this case. TJ knows how to punch:

Bailey was thrilled to get a chance:

Joey punched harder than them all:

As you can see, we had a great time. I'm sure that rank will stick really well with all of the effort these kids put into it:

I was surprised to receive a rose. I think these guys know that the wives are just as invested in this career as their husbands. It was a very nice gesture:

I had to include this photo just because TJ cracks me up!

After the ceremony, fellow soldiers offer their congratulations. I know Erick wouldn't be where he is today without De'Shane's mentor-ship and friendship:

I just love this photo. Mario has also been a huge part of Erick's career. Thanks Mario for teaching Erick so much:

It's kind of exciting to have a captain in the family. Again, congratulations Erick! I love you! No one deserves this more.