The Marine Corps Birthday Ball

Well, y'all, Jon and I have experienced it...the Marine Corps Birthday Ball.  I'm not sure if I mentioned it before, but although we are Army, Jon is currently participating in a Marine school. This is a super unique opportunity for him career-wise, but also in terms of us getting to experience traditions we wouldn't get to otherwise, like the birthday ball.  As an Army spouse, and even before I married Jon, I had always heard of what a big deal the Marine Corps Birthday was.  This season is so special in how the two of us have been able to learn and appreciate the trades and traditions of the Marine Corps.  After learning more about their history as an organization, building friendships with Jon's fellow classmates and their spouses, and celebrating side by side, I have much more of a heartfelt appreciation for the men and women serving in this branch of the military.  Happy birthday, Marines!

Today I'm joining Biana for her link-up, 'Weekending'.  How was your weekend?

The Marine Corps Marathon!

 Happy Monday, Y'all!  This was a pretty exciting weekend for us as Jon completed his very first marathon!:)  I was a bit nervous about the whole thing, but not Jon.  He was ready to go.  I have to admit that it was a super fun and exciting experience.  I've never been to a race, let alone a marathon.  I think the thing that impressed me the most was the insane amount of spectator support.  There were tons of fans lining all 26.2 miles to cheer on the 30,000 runners...mind-blowing, not to mention the absolutely beautiful weather in our nation's capital.We woke up at 4am, drove to the metro, and dropped in to meet the start of the race at the pentagon.  As the sun came up, runners pinned on numbers, stretched and downed power snacks and water.  After a beautiful opening ceremony of paratroopers in sky, the race began. 

I kissed Jon goodbye and found the nearest Bruegger's Bagels to try their amazing pumpkin bagel, pumpkin cream cheese and pumpkin spice coffee.  Y'all have got to try them! Yum!  I wandered around DC enjoying the beautiful morning, sipping coffee and snapping photos with hopes of remembering the day.  I tried to track Jon at various points in the race based on his speed, but wasn't sure exactly where I would catch him. Nonetheless, I enjoyed joining in to cheer with the crowd.

Just over 4 hours after take off, I spotted my Jon approaching the finish line.  I have never been so proud and relieved (except for when he returned from deployment of course).  He was clearly sore, but still smiling.  We sat and chatted, caught the metro out of town, and ordered our favorite food: pizza.

Today I'm joining Biana for her link-up, 'Weekending'.  How was your weekend?