Thirty!

May 18, 1980 - Mt. St. Helens Erupts:
"Shaken by an earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale, the north face of this tall symmetrical mountain collapsed in a massive rock debris avalanche. In a few moments this slab of rock and ice slammed into Spirit Lake, crossed a ridge 1,300 feet high, and roared 14 miles down the Toutle River.


The avalanche rapidly released pressurized gases within the volcano. A tremendous lateral explosion ripped through the avalanche and developed into a turbulent, stone-filled wind that swept over ridges and toppled trees. Nearly 150 square miles of forest was blown over or left dead and standing.

At the same time a mushroom-shaped column of ash rose thousands of feet skyward and drifted downwind, turning day into night as dark, gray ash fell over eastern Washington and beyond. Wet, cement-like slurries of rock and mud scoured all sides of the volcano. Searing flows of pumice poured from the crater. The eruption lasted 9 hours, but Mount St. Helens and the surrounding landscape were dramatically changed within moments."

And exactly one year later my beautiful husband, Terry William, 'erupted' (oh geez, this is borderline, even for me) in to this world, born to Terry Eugene and Mona Sue.  Not quite as memorable for some, but nevertheless, a day for which I am eternally grateful.  ;-D

Terry Eugene and Mona Sue [Terry's parents]

He is my Husband, the father of my children, United States Marine, my lover and friend.  He served his country because he loves freedom, he raises a child whom not biologically related because he loves her more than life, and continues to support and love me despite, well...me.

Marine.

Saying good-bye as he left for Iraq.

Thank you sweetness, for loving and supporting our family, for being my partner in crime, and for laughing with me through it all.  Here's to always. 

Happy 30th Birthday! <3 <3 <3