I have not blogged in almost 3 months. In fact, the last blog was about Zach heading off to the Police Academy for training. Guess what...He's back!!! So 12 weeks later I write this blog in honor of him, yet again. This time however, he is wearing his uniform proudly as a Peoria City Police Officer. We are so proud of you Zach!!!!
I think it is often hard for people to appreciate officers when they are having speeding tickets handed to them...but in all honesty, we are blessed to have them protecting us. I also don't think people understand what these officers go through just to get the job that will only guarantee them stress for the rest of their lives. At PTI (the Police Training Institute) they are maced, tazed, beaten up, and worked to the bone. They go through this training to better serve the people and to protect themselves when dealing with individuals who would have no problem killing them. It is a dangerous job and the more experience they have, the safer it will be for them.
So now that Zach is done with his 'real world' training, he will be placed into the Real World for a year with a training officer. This officer will basically help him build the skills he needs to be on his own in the streets of Peoria. This year is crucial to his career as the City hold the right to 'relieve him' of duty if he doesn't pass the field training. Good Luck Brother. We will be praying for your safety and sanity over the year!
The stage waiting for the ceremony to begin....basically I was testing the lighting to be sure i was going to get decent pictures when the time came :o)
Processional...I believe this was the Decatur police department being honored here. Probably for working in such a horrid town.
The really big man speaking. I think being around him alone would scare me enough to go home and find a new profession.
Brother getting his diploma. (Sorry Director of PTI...your hair is blonde and your face got bleached out....I feel your pain.)
Presenting the Officers :o)
I know I annoy him with my picture taking of every little detail, but someday he will appreciate it.
I believe this was just after my family told me that I was bossy. Once again, they will appreciate it someday. I made them all go sit down early (we got front row seats). And I made them go outside for pictures (everyone looks a lot better than they did inside). And I think we took about 100 pictures of every variety to be sure there were some good ones. So, you are WELCOME family now you have lots of pics to frame.
My favorite people in the world. Can't believe Zach finally has a real job (hehe) and Bubby is going off to college. AHH Soon, maybe I will have little nieces and nephews to play with (after marriage of course).
The crew. (L-R) Bryce and his girlfriend Rachel, Zach's girlfriend Brittany, Zach, Me, Micah. I could not ask for better siblings and We are SOOO Blessed to have wonderful significant others. I love you all!
*Not pictured (in this blog) are Mom, Leon, Grandma, Aunt Georgia, Dad, and Aunt Connie.
