Nov 30...A few final thoughts...

for my 30 days of Thankful posts...I am so very thankful for my amazing family and friends. I'm thankful for the time I'm able to spend with them, I only wish I could do it more. I'm thankful for the memories I have of our times together for those who are no longer here with us. And today, as I learn of the passing of a very dear friend from back home, I am thankful that I was able to spend some time on the golf course with him on one of those trips home and that we could sit and chat about old times and new over a drink on another trip. Though I didn't see or talk to you often, the times we did meant a lot and you will be dearly missed, Kendall! My thoughts, prayers and love go out to your entire family. I hope they are all able to focus on the love you had for them and how precious and important they were to you, especially the kids and grandkids. You leave a legacy for sure!     

Where Has the Time Gone?

So, life seems to have taken over for the last year plus! Now that life after the Army is nearly a reality, hopefully I will be a little better about keeping things updated. As for what has been going on for the past 15 months or so...

I was finishing up life as I've known it for the past 20 years. The Army has been just that for me...my life. It was my job, my career, my family, my friends...it was everything to me. It has been a great ride and I have some wonderful memories that I will treasure for a lifetime! I have some amazing friendships that I will carry with me into my next chapter and hope to continue to strengthen for many more years to come. While I am closing the door on that life and ending that chapter, it will always be a part of me and who I am, as will all of the people who helped me through those times.

May 26th was a very difficult day for me, as that was the day of my Retirement Ceremony. I was blessed to have many people from throughout my career able to be here in San Antonio to share that special day with me. From former 1SGs to former Soldiers who were students when I instructed or trainees when I was a Drill Sergeant, former Soldiers who worked for or with me and many peers from throughout my career. I was honored to have one of the best friends anyone could have and one of the best Soldiers the Army has ever known as my Guest Speaker to make the day even more special. Last but not least, I was blessed, honored, and very proud to have nearly all of my family here to celebrate the day with me, as well.

I have tons of photos of the occasion up on my Facebook page, so feel free to go and check them out. It truly was a wonderful day and I am really glad that someone convinced me to do it, since I originally didn't want to have a ceremony. Thank you Dennis for everything, most of all for your service to this great country...and secondly for your friendship!!!

Now I am trying to figure out what I really want to be when I grow up. My dream job would be working in the Education and Training Department at Sea World...I mean doing what I love at my happy place - does it get any better than that?!?! :-) LOL I am currently working to get my Close to My Heart business going again, as well. So, for any of you who are interested in Scrapbooking and Stamping and preserving your memories and sharing them with loved ones or exploring your creativity, let me know and I'd love to help you with that!

I'm also trying to reconnect with "Jenny-May", as "Sergeant Olson" is who I've been for 18 years now and that's going to take some adjustments and getting used to, I think. I'm ready, though, for the next chapter and what life has in store and where God leads me next. I hope you'll all come along for the ride! Let the journey begin!

God Bless America! God Bless the US Army! God Bless you all!

Blessings,
Jenny-May