We have a new addition to our family.

Last weekend I traveled to Chicago for the first time. The food is amazing, the view from Willis Tower is outstanding, the people honest (they lack that southern sweetness that comes with a side of “Bless Your Heart” but in small doses I found their bluntness refreshing and often comical).

I traveled to Chicago to spend the weekend with my brother, sister, parents, brother-in-law and my soon to be sister-in-law. That’s her on her wedding day in the orange top dropping my little brother.

Their wedding was small and perfectly them. From the invitations inviting us to a barbeque in their backyard, to the white lights that decorated the front porch where they said vows, every detail seemed to express the simple joy that has always been a characteristic of Justin. His new bride radiates that same peace and I couldn’t be happier for either of them.

I love that marriage is a joining of families. How it takes two very different groups of people and unites them.

Olivia, my little sis, introduced our family to Joe, who like her is full of life. She couldn’t have found a more perfect fit.

The kids and I set off on a road trip from Sunny El Paso to a rainy Tampa in 2010. We spent our week with my parents in a small vacation home, visited family, met Olivia’s friends and Joe’s family. We had a wonderful time just preparing for the big day and spending it together.

My sister has now been married 4 years. Her wedding was fun, loud, and full of laughter. Just like her.

Joe and Mandy have both brought so much joy to our family. I wish we all lived a little closer to enjoy one another more. For now I will celebrate every opportunity I get to travel, to visit new places, and meet new people. I am thrilled that these two people chose to join our family. I look forward to the many years ahead.

John and I recently celebrated our 12th anniversary. We’ve toyed around with the idea of a vow renewal, especially following deployments. Of course that is nothing compared to my parents who will be celebrating their 39th this year. I think a big 40th Celebration is in order in 2015 to get all of us together again.

Have you renewed your vows recently? We would love to see a picture or hear about it in the comments below.

If you are in the midst of planning a wedding or a vow renewal be sure to check out Weddings on Zazzle . They are today’s giveaway sponsor. Zazzle isn’t just for weddings. They have a number of fun products you can spend your $50 on. Right now from July 21st until July 25th they are having a Christmas in July, up to 60% off.

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Chicago highlight reel