Day 31 (1/31/11) - A Wing And A Prayer

Today Mike aced his final skills evaluation and officially became a flight medic with MSP Aviation.  There was even an impromptu wing pinning ceremony during which the Major presented Mike with his medic wings.  His name patch will also be updated to include his new title, Flight Medic.  (I think the unintentional artistry of the second picture is really neat with the lighting shining down on the wings symbolizing divine presence and compassion.)

This day, which has been two years in the making, was cause for a big celebration, complete with confetti and balloons.  We even ate dinner in the dining room using our formal wedding china (marking the 4th time it's been used since we got married!).  For dessert we had home-assembled (as opposed to homemade) ice cream cake, made from store bought pound cake, fudge brownie ice cream, and hot fudge sauce (an idea shamelessly borrowed from Kelsea).  To recognize his accomplishment, the boys and I presented Mike with a necklace featuring Saint Michael, the patron saint of law enforcement.  I had given the necklace to Mike many years ago when he first became a road trooper.  But, about a year ago it was broken during a wrestling session with the boys.  We had it repaired so he could wear it for his first shift as a solo flight medic.  It brings us peace beyond measure to know that he's being protected by a guardian angel while he helps those in need.