The Roeder's: January 2010

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Mark In Haiti

Mark is the one in the blue closest to the helicopter. They are laoding supplies to take to the city.

"Haiti was very hot and it is very sad to see the destruction caused, but to see all branches of the military working together to help out a country that we have no political interests in makes me proud to do it.  I have a lot of pictures that we will get posted eventually but I can't upload them from the camera at this time.  We may be here a while so if I go back, I will be sure to share everything"

Thursday, January 14, 2010

The USS Carl Vinson has become a part of the humanitarian effort in the relief of the thousands of people who have been affected by this horrible tragedy in Haiti. Mark will be helping in the effort as well. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those families affected there and here in the United States. Mark is eager to help and ready. I am always so proud of him and everything his does for us as a family and our country to help other countries in need. Mark, you are always in my heart always. Be safe and I love you with all my heart.

Mark's Voyage

For those of you who do not know Mark has left on his voyage to the West coast. The ship, USS Carl Vinson (aircraft carrier) has finished it's five year overhaul and now must return to San Diego. Along the way he will be stopping in some pretty nice and exotic places. While the ship will be staying in San Diego Mark will not be. He should be returning in a few months. Though Brennan and I miss him so much, I think it's great that they are allowing him to go along with them since he has been with the ship the entire time it has been stationary. I will definitely be keeping everyone updated on his location and status when I can.

Here are a few pictures of the ship that were taken when they were getting it ready to take the trip back.

Beautiful Sunrise

Mark took this picture Christmas Eve morning on our way to West Virginia. I just loved the view and the mountains in the background. It's serene and so peaceful.

Ooooh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

If anyone has ever grown up in Laurel, you know about the unofficial Christmas Tree of Laurel. Mark and I both agree; ever since we were young this was one thing we have always looked forward to seeing each year around Christmas. There is just something about staring at this larger than life tree with all of these lights that makes it so magical.

Christmas With Pop's and Uncle Jeff

Since Mark and I were not going to be around on Christmas we celebrated with Pops and Uncle Jeff a couple day before Christmas. We had a lot of fun hanging out and opening gifts. We loved watching Brennan's different reactions to the gifts.

Georgie, the Christmas kitty.

It wouldn't be Christmas without the Redskins.

Pop's of course has to try to convert his grandson. You got time Pops.

Brennan giving the Ravens bear kisses.

Uncle Jeff and his soccer jersey.

Brennan is such a big helper. "I'll help you Uncle Jeff!"

Pop's favorite team! Go Ravens!

Brennan is, "SO BIG!"

Uncle Jeff got Brennan this really cool doggie that has different color paws and he talks to him, counts and does all kinds of neat things. Brennan loves this thing! He can't get enough of it.

Merry Christmas!

Last Christmas and this Christmas Mark and I have spent the holiday in West Virginia with my Grandparents. Everyone was there, including Uncle Charlie, Anna, Piper, Mom, Dad, Chris, LuLu, Jill, Andrew, Brennan and of course our wonderful hosts Grandma and Granper. This year was especially special for Mark and I because it was Brennan's first Christmas. I can't say he enjoyed the presents as much as the wrapping paper, but hey, thats what babies do. We wish we had Monica with us, but she was able to go to Columbia, South America to be with her family, something she has not been able to do in a long time. Though we wished she could have been with us we are happy she was able to be with them. We all enjoyed ourselves and we love being together.