He's back for a while.

Hi friends. It's been a while since we've had an update, but we've been busy in our little Hawaiian home. A lot of good things have been happening. Great things.

Spencer is back from his 2 month training exercise. 2 months was definitely easier than 8 months, but still, it's 2 months. He shouldn't have to leave again until his next job starts. Which by the way, another great thing is that we found out we are staying here in Hawaii for another 2 years. So from now, we're here for 3 years. Awesome. It was what we wanted. 2 years in Hawaii (with 12 of them being separated from each other) was not long enough for us. We are excited!

I got a really great job. I had been working through a temp agency since we moved here, and I was bouncing around from job to job, taking whatever became available, and turning down permanent positions that they were offering. I loved getting to choose when I worked, and if I didn't like the job, no big deal, it's only temporary. That was fun while it lasted, but it got to a point where I wanted to get more of a permanent position. I ended up finding a nanny job through care.com (that is also the website I used to get my job in Virginia Beach). So far I am 2 for 2 when it comes to that website! Both have provided me with really amazing families that are so great to work for. This particular family is a military family with 2 kids, ages 9 and 11. Both are very well behaved, self sufficient, active, and fun to talk to. The hours are perfect for me - while they are at school, I am off. But I am there in the mornings and afternoons. This is definitely a job I plan to keep while both the family and I are still living here. I mean who wouldn't want a job where you get to go swimming, play tennis, go to the mall, etc. and get paid for it!?

My photography business is finally getting up and running. It took me a while to really get motivated to start my business out here since I thought we'd be leaving soon, but once I heard we were staying longer, I went for it. Photography is what I really love to do, so I'm not sure why it took me so long to get it going. Be sure to follow my photography blog to keep up to date on all of my latest work.

We've both been busy with our church callings. Spencer is assistant scout master (or something like that), and I am 2nd counselor in YW. Not only do we have our regular mutual night during the week, but for the last month or so (and up until the end of November), we've added an extra church night dedicated to rehearsal for a cultural celebration dance routine that will be performed for the prophet at the Laie Temple re-dedication. From what I've seen, it should be amazing. 

Spencer recently got promoted! Hooray! This promotion is an automatic promotion for those who have been in the Navy for 2 years. I can't believe he's already been in that long, but I couldn't be happier about it. It comes with a nice pay raise, some silver bars, and a new fancy title. Lieutenant JG (Junior Grade).