Fitting Update on Russ

Kimberly Van Diepen, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

I think it's only fitting on Father's Day to give you an update on one of my favorite men, my Prince. I was so thankful that we were able to Skype with him today and tell him how much we love and miss him.  He is a GREAT daddy! When you're on Deployment, the holidays run together because everyday is Monday.  He didn't realize that today was HIS day.  Instead he worked 17+ hours.  This seems to be a typical day for Russ.  As the story goes he sleeps, eats and works.  Then the same thing happens the next day over and over again.  We are lucky enough to talk to him almost daily for a few minutes each day.  He looks great, but I am pretty bias.  He is tired but he wouldn't tell you that. He tries really hard to keep a positive outlook on everything.  This is why I love him so much.  Even during a crappy situation (Ummm… LIKE this!) he will find something FANTASTIC about it!

Kimberly Van Diepen, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

 

 

No worries, my husband is protecting your safety.  ROFL.  I have to laugh at this photo because Russ seems to be obsessed with toilets overseas.  Not sure of the story behind this photo but I thought it was pretty funny that he has potty patrol.  This is my hero!

One of our friends invited us over for dinner tonight.  It was a coworker of Russ from the Pentagon.  I was so grateful for this invite.  It meant we were able to get out of our house and celebrate rather than sit at home and be sad.  The kids have been doing so great since we came home from the cruise and I want it to continue.  Don't get me wrong, there are still moments but they are much more under control.  Thank God!

This week was a tough week for me.  I did a few STUPID things which could have played a good role into my mood.  Could have been the moon. Who knows? I am female and totally allowed to have these moments.  I just make sure I can pull myself out of the them otherwise we are in trouble. This means I do a lot of self talk and SO very thankful for my friends that can make me laugh until I almost wet my pants. They are the BEST!

The kids are now on Summer Break and thrilled.  I'm thrilled because I'm a night owl and this means I can sleep in just a wee bit.  It's a good thing. 

Here is a few pictures captured today of my kids. 

Kimberly Van Diepen, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

 

 

Kimberly Van Diepen, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

 

 

Kimberly Van Diepen, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

 

 

Lastly, this is what I made for my Prince. 

Kimberly Van Diepen, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

 

 

Kimberly Van Diepen, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

 

 

I thought the stamp set was perfect to use for a Father's Day card for him.  I didn't put a Father's Day sentiment on the card because I wasn't sure the card would make it in time.  I am so glad this set will continue on into the new catalog.  You can check out this set and much more in my Online Store.  I stamped until 3am last night with a friend of mine.  It was so much fun and I got a lot of stamping done.  I'll be back tomorrow to share more. 

Thank you for your continued Prayers for Russ! We can't thank you enough. 

Have a GREAT week!

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14 thoughts on “Fitting Update on Russ”

  1. So glad you had a few minutes with your man today – and he looks like he is doing a good job of guarding, lol!! I have to say, this brought back memories for me – I remember being in one of those worrying that my weapon was going to fall into the toilet because I had so much body armor on , I felt like I could hardly move, ROFL!!!!!  The days DO blend together over there BUT what makes it great are those moments of home so keep on sharing those – love YOU, girl!!!! *STAMPIN HUGS* Alex

  2. Kimberly,
    I follow your blog and love the dedication you and your family have to your family, and to our country.  Please thank Russ from me and so many other people to keep our freedom.  We really are grateful and appreciate your sacrifices.

  3. Stunning card! Glad Russ and you all are doing ok. I want to thank you for your sacrifice  so your hubby can protect our country.

  4. Want to thank families like yours for our freedom & protection.  You sharing this experience makes it soooooooooooo real (its just so much different than hearing it from a personal side).  Thank you seems so inadequate when you hear of the personal sacrifices that are made but I THANK your husband and so many others who are out there.  I pray Gods safety, protection and soon return for all our men & women.  Gods blessings on you & your children today & always.
     

  5. Kimberly – What a great card!  Doesn't SU! have some of the greatest sentiments? They know just what to say!! 
    Beautiful update on how things are going and I want you to know – I have those "stupid moments" also!   I try to brush them off at times and say things will get better but sometimes I wonder if they ever will!  Just know – you are not alone and we all have those times when we wished we could hit "rewind".
    I am headed to Colorado this Saturday to spend a whole week with my daughter!  Wish you still lived in Colorado Springs – we could have looked you up!
    Take care –  and best wishes to you!

  6. I love reading your daily entries… your card style is awesome… but I really appreciate how intimately you share with us. I thank your husband for his protection and you for giving him up for us. I hope lots of people see how it effects the families of our heros… war is a sad, sad, human condition that is here to stay for now. We have to appreciate and honor those that so willingly give of their lives for the whole nation. My heart goes out to you and your adorable children. I will pray for your husbands safety. Stay strong… and know that your sharing helps others that can't be so brave and need to hear how you feel. big hugs

  7. You have a beautiful family and you can do this!  Just keep the faith.  Thanks for the updates and prayers go up for you and yours.

  8. Kimberly what a great card and story. I love reading your blog I feel like I really know you and your family. I envy the closeness you guys have!!! Your children are adorable and so is your prince! I look forward to your posts and of course your card creations.
    wishing you happiness always,
    Terry~

  9. Carol Carriveau

    I agree with all of the other sentiments you have received and we continue to pray not only for your Prince and the many other service personnel over there, but for you and your kids as well as the other service families.   Continue to take good care and of course you know that  life is one day at a time and you can't beat yourself up too much when you have a 'different' kind of day.  Hugs to you all!

  10. I love the Father's Day card!
    The photo of your 2 kids together is just adorable!
    God Bless!!!

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